prostate specific antigen test
The prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test measures blood levels of a protein produced by prostate gland cells, aiding in prostate cancer screening and treatment monitoring.
Purpose and Procedure
It screens asymptomatic men for early cancer detection and follows PSA trends post-diagnosis to assess progression or recurrence. A simple blood draw is used, with results typically reported in ng/mL; levels above 4 ng/mL often prompt further evaluation like digital rectal exam (DRE) or biopsy.
Limitations and Causes of Elevation
Elevated PSA lacks specificity for cancer, rising due to benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), prostatitis, urinary infections, or even recent ejaculation/ejaculation. Early cancers may not elevate it sufficiently, so it’s combined with DRE and imaging for accuracy.
