Serum prostate-specific antigen (PSA)
Serum prostate-specific antigen (PSA) is a blood test that measures the amount of PSA, a protein produced by the prostate gland, in the blood, used to screen for and monitor prostate cancer.
What is PSA?
Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) is a protein produced by both normal and cancerous prostate cells.
Why is PSA tested?
A PSA test is used to screen for prostate cancer, monitor the progression of the disease, and assess the effectiveness of treatment.
How is PSA measured?
A PSA test is a simple blood test that measures the level of PSA in a sample of your blood.
What does a high PSA level mean?
A high PSA level can indicate prostate cancer, but it can also be caused by other conditions, such as an enlarged prostate or prostatitis.
Other factors to consider:
A PSA test is often used in conjunction with a digital rectal exam (DRE) to increase the chance of finding prostate cancer early.
Normal PSA levels:
A normal PSA level is generally considered to be below 4.0 nanograms per milliliter (ng/mL).
PSA levels and age:
According to MD Anderson Cancer Center, generally speaking, PSA levels for men who are Age 60 or older: should be at or below 4.0 mg/mL, and Age 59 or younger: should be at or below 2.5 mg/mL.
When to get a PSA test:
Discuss with your doctor about whether a PSA test is right for you, especially if you have symptoms that could indicate prostate cancer.