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Prostate

 

 
The Prostate
Prostate Gland Enlargement
PSA Test
Prostate Cancer
 


PSA Test (Prostate-Specific Antigen Test)

The prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test was developed and approved by the FDA in 1986. It is a test that is designed to help detect prostate cancer.

PSA is an enzyme that is made by the prostate and acts to assist in liquefying semen by dissolving the proteins that promote clumping in semen. A doctor can identify a number of problems relating to the prostate by testing the amount of PSA circulating in the bloodstream. This test is performed using a small blood sample taken from the arm.

Small amounts of PSA in the bloodstream (from 0-4.0 nanograms per milliliter) is considered normal. What is considered normal changes in relation to man's age, as PSA levels tend to climb a small amount with age.

PSA levels higher than 4.0 can indicate a problem with the prostate, including inflammation, infection, enlargement or cancer. Approximately 30% of men showing elevated PSA levels have cancer. It is important to note that some men without any prostate problems show PSA levels higher than normal, and 20% of prostate cancers develop while PSA levels are in the 'normal' range.

Professionals have varying opinions on the value of PSA testing. The test itself is not perfect and carries with it some risks and benefits. Benefits of the PSA test include:

  • detecting prostate cancer long before any symptoms present themselves

  • early detection makes treating the cancer easier

  • the test has contributed to a significant reduction in prostate cancer deaths

Some negatives of the PSA test include:

  • in approximately 20% of cases, PSA tests show 'normal' PSA levels in men with early prostate cancer (false-positive)

  • the test itself does not distinguish between prostate cancer and other prostate problems

  • 2 out of 3 of those with elevated levels of PSA do not have prostate cancer, causing undue worry

  • men over the age of 75 do not benefit from the test, as treating prostate cancer in men past age 75 is unlikely to lengthen lifespan


The Digital Urology Channel offers information about the prostate and prostate gland diseases and conditions. The Prostate Cancer Coalition website is an excellent resource for those managing the disease.


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