Question

a 56 - year - old male patient presents with increased frequency of urination and nocturia. his prostate palpates hard and lumpy. which of the following test is most important in the diagnosis of this patient?
a) alkaline phosphatase
b) lactate dehydrogenase
c) alanine aminotransferase
d) leukocyte esterase
e) prostate specific antigen

Explanation:

The patient has symptoms (increased urination frequency, nocturia) and a physical finding (hard and lumpy prostate). Prostate - specific antigen (PSA) is a key biomarker for prostate - related conditions. Alkaline phosphatase is more related to bone and liver disorders. Lactate dehydrogenase is a general enzyme marker for tissue damage (not specific to prostate). Alanine aminotransferase is mainly for liver function assessment. Leukocyte esterase is used to detect leukocytes (e.g., in urine for urinary tract infections).

Answer:

e) Prostate specific antigen