PROSTATE SPECIFIC ANTIGEN (PSA)

 

What is the Prostate?

The prostate is a gland found only in men. It is located internally, under the bladder and in front

of the rectum. It's function is to produce liquids and substances that are normal components of

semen.

 

Why Check PSA Levels?

The PSA test is becoming an increasingly common cancer screening test for men. An elevated

PSA level does not automatically mean that you have cancer; however, the PSA test can assist

your doctor in the early detection of any prostate abnormalities that could potentially be

cancerous.

- Lower levels may simply be due to a prostate that has become larger with age,

something called benign prostatic hyperplasia, which is a benign, non-cancerous

condition. Extremely high PSA levels are often associated with the presence of prostate

cancer.

- The PSA test is also used to monitor cancer recurrence. If surgery has been performed

to remove the cancerous prostate or parts of it or the prostate has been radiated, the

PSA should be almost zero. If levels are rising each time the test is done, this indicates

the cancer may be returning or spreading.

 

Common Causes of Elevated PSA Levels:

- Prostate Cancer

- Benign Prostatic Hypertrophy (BPH)

- Cancerous Recurrence