Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA)

Prostate

Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) - What You Need to Know

I see many men present due to elevated or high PSA levels as part of their regular health screening. Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) is a protein produced by secretory cells that line the prostate. Its levels in the blood are commonly used to screen for and monitor prostate health, particularly prostate cancer, which introduces anxiety in men. High PSA results must be interpreted according to the context, considering age, health status, and any medications or recent physical activities. PSA trends over time are more important than single measurements. However, its utility as a screening tool for Prostate Cancer remains a topic of debate due to overlapping values in conditions like benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), inflammation (prostatitis), or cancer.

Hence, there are different reference ranges of PSA for various age groups of men.

Key Knowledge About PSA

Factors Influencing PSA Levels

Free vs. Bound PSA

A lower percentage of free PSA may indicate a higher likelihood of prostate cancer.

Advanced Testing Methods

Innovations like PSA density, PSA velocity, and the Prostate Health Index (phi) are being explored to improve cancer detection and minimize unnecessary biopsies.

What Elevated PSA Could Indicate

Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH): The larger the prostate, the more PSA it produces. This is common in men over 50.
Prostate Cancer: While most prostate cancers express PSA, low levels do not rule out cancer, as more aggressive forms may produce less PSA. It is important to understand the context of the individual.
Inflammation or Infection: Prostatitis can cause significant PSA spikes in younger or sexually active men.

Takeaway for Health Monitoring

It is important to see your healthcare provider or family physician to discuss PSA screening to understand its benefits and limitations. Stay informed about emerging diagnostic tools that might enhance accuracy in detecting significant prostate conditions.