PSA (Prostate Specific Antigen)
PSA (Prostate Specific Antigen)
PSA, or prostate-specific antigen, is a protein produced by the prostate that can be measured through a blood test. A higher than usual level of PSA in your blood usually indicates that further tests for prostate cancer are warranted.
PSA, or prostate-specific antigen, is a protein produced by the prostate and found mostly in semen, with very small amounts released into the bloodstream. When there’s a problem with the prostate—such as the development and growth of prostate cancer—more PSA is released.
PSA levels can indicate prostate cancer but can also be elevated due to:
- Age
- BPH
- Infection
- Recent ejaculation
- Certain medications
General PSA guidelines:
- Under 50: < 2.5 ng/mL
- 50-59: < 3.5 ng/mL
- 60-69: < 4.5 ng/mL
- 70+: < 6.5 ng/mL
Various forms of PSA measurement that can provide additional diagnostic information.
More Detail:
- Free PSA: Percentage of PSA not bound to proteins
- PSA Density: PSA level relative to prostate size
- PSA Velocity: Rate of PSA change over time
- Pro-PSA and PHI (Prostate Health Index)