PSA Exam: Interpreting Results for Prostate Cancer The PSA exam or the prostate-specific antigen blood test is a diagnostic tool used to measure the level of PSA in a man’s blood. PSA is a protein produced by the prostate gland. Elevated levels of PSA can be an indication of prostate problems including but not limited to prostate cancer. However, not all cases of elevated PSA levels indicate prostate cancer. The PSA exam is a screening test and should always be combined with other diagnostic tests and a medical evaluation. In this article, we will discuss interpreting results for prostate cancer using the PSA exam. We will explain what elevated PSA levels mean, the factors that may affect PSA levels, and follow-up procedures for abnormal PSA levels. Understanding PSA Levels In general, PSA levels increase as men age and as the prostate gland grows. According to the American Cancer Society, PSA levels higher than 4 nanograms per milliliter (ng/mL) may signify prostate cancer. However, the PSA exam may have limitations and may not provide conclusive results. In addition to prostate cancer, PSA levels can increase for other reasons. Here are some of the factors that may affect PSA levels: – Urinary tract infection: An inflamed prostate gland caused by a urinary tract infection may increase PSA levels. – Prostatitis: Inflammation of the prostate gland is a common condition among men. Prostatitis can raise PSA levels. – Age: As we mentioned earlier, PSA levels increase as men age. Men above the age of 50 are more likely to have elevated PSA levels. – Medications: Certain medications, such as aspirin, diuretics, and cholesterol-lowering drugs may affect PSA levels. – Physical activity: Participating in vigorous physical activity before a PSA exam may raise PSA levels temporarily. Besides, a PSA exam is not always accurate. False-positive results may lead to unnecessary biopsies, while false-negative results may overlook cancer. For this reason, doctors may require additional tests to confirm results. Follow-up Procedures If you have elevated PSA levels, your doctor may recommend additional diagnostic tests. Some of these tests include: – Digital Rectal Exam (DRE): A physical exam where the doctor feels the prostate through the rectum. – Transrectal ultrasound (TRUS): A test where a small probe is inserted into the rectum to produce an image of the prostate gland. – Biopsy: A test where a small sample of prostate tissue is removed and examined in a laboratory. If the results of the tests indicate prostate cancer, the doctor will recommend treatment based on the type of cancer, your age, and overall health. Some of the treatment options include surgery, radiation therapy, and hormone therapy. Conclusion The PSA exam is a valuable screening tool for prostate cancer. Elevated levels may indicate prostate cancer, but other conditions such as prostatitis and urinary tract infections can raise PSA levels. Therefore, a PSA exam should always be combined with other diagnostic tests and a medical evaluation. If you have questions about your PSA results or if you are experiencing any prostate-related problems, please consult a qualified medical professional.

In addition to prostate cancer, PSA levels can increase for other reasons. Here are some of the factors that may affect PSA levels:.

Urinary tract infection: An inflamed prostate gland caused by a urinary tract infection may increase PSA levels.
Prostatitis: Inflammation of the prostate gland is a common condition among men. Prostatitis can raise PSA levels.
Age: As we mentioned earlier, PSA levels increase as men age. Men above the age of 50 are more likely to have elevated PSA levels.
Medications: Certain medications, such as aspirin, diuretics, and cholesterol-lowering drugs may affect PSA levels.
Physical activity: Participating in vigorous physical activity before a PSA exam may raise PSA levels temporarily.

Follow-up Procedures

If you have elevated PSA levels, your doctor may recommend additional diagnostic tests. Some of these tests include:.

Digital Rectal Exam (DRE): A physical exam where the doctor feels the prostate through the rectum.
Transrectal ultrasound (TRUS): A test where a small probe is inserted into the rectum to produce an image of the prostate gland.
Biopsy: A test where a small sample of prostate tissue is removed and examined in a laboratory.

Conclusion

The PSA exam is a valuable screening tool for prostate cancer. Elevated levels may indicate prostate cancer, but other conditions such as prostatitis and urinary tract infections can raise PSA levels.

Therefore, a PSA exam should always be combined with other diagnostic tests and a medical evaluation.

If you have questions about your PSA results or if you are experiencing any prostate-related problems, please consult a qualified medical professional.