A PSA (prostate-specific antigen) test is a blood test used primarily to screen for prostate cancer. The test measures the amount of PSA in your blood, which is a protein produced by both cancerous and noncancerous tissue in the prostate gland. The prostate gland is a small gland that sits below the bladder in males and produces semen. Small amounts of PSA ordinarily circulate in the blood, but high levels of PSA can indicate the presence of prostate cancer. However, many other conditions, such as an enlarged or inflamed prostate, can also increase PSA levels, so determining what a high PSA score means can be complicated.
A PSA test may help detect prostate cancer at an early stage, which is easier to treat and more likely to be cured. However, the PSA test is only one tool used to screen for early signs of prostate cancer, and it doesnt provide precise diagnostic information about the condition of the prostate. Another common screening test, usually done in addition to a PSA test, is a digital rectal exam.
If a screening test shows an elevated PSA level, further tests, such as a prostate biopsy, may be done to determine if cancer is present. The PSA level in blood is measured in units called nanograms per milliliter (ng/mL), and there is no single PSA reading that is considered normal. The reading varies from man to man, and the level increases as you get older. Typically, most men have a PSA level of less than 3ng/mL.
Its important to talk to your doctor about anything that might affect your PSA level, such as ejaculation within the last 48 hours, having an examination of your prostate (digital rectal examination) before the PSA blood ...
