In short
- PSA (prostate-specific antigen) is a protein produced by the prostate and is naturally present in small amounts in the blood.
- An elevated PSA level can have various causes, such as an enlarged prostate, inflammation of the prostate or prostate cancer.
- An elevated PSA level does not automatically mean that you have prostate cancer.
- Possible symptoms of prostate problems include needing to urinate more frequently, a weak urine stream, difficulty emptying your bladder or blood in the urine, although abnormal PSA levels often cause no symptoms.
- A PSA test measures the amount of prostate-specific antigen in the blood and provides more insight into prostate health.
- The result of a PSA test is assessed by your doctor in combination with your age, symptoms and, if necessary, additional tests.
- Measuring PSA can help detect prostate abnormalities at an early stage or monitor the progression of an existing condition.
- Would you like more insight into your prostate health? A PSA test can provide quick and reliable information.
What is prostate-specific antigen and what does this level say about prostate health?
Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) is a protein produced by the prostate, a gland in men located just below the bladder. PSA is normally present in small amounts in the blood. A PSA test measures the amount of this protein in the blood. The level can provide information about prostate health: a higher level may indicate problems, but these do not necessarily have to be serious.
What does a high or low prostate-specific antigen level mean?
A high PSA level means that there is more PSA in the blood than normal. This can have various causes, such as inflammation of the prostate, an enlarged prostate or prostate cancer. A low level is usually normal and indicates that there are no abnormalities with the prostate. It is important to know that an elevated PSA level does not automatically mean that someone has prostate cancer.
What symptoms can indicate an abnormal prostate-specific antigen level?
Symptoms that may be associated with an abnormal PSA level include needing to urinate more frequently, difficulty urinating, a weak urine stream, pain when urinating or blood in the urine. Sometimes there are no symptoms at all, and an abnormal level is discovered by chance during a blood test.
What can cause prostate-specific antigen to be elevated without prostate cancer?
An elevated PSA level can also be caused by conditions other than prostate cancer. For example, inflammation of the prostate (prostatitis), benign enlargement of the prostate (benign prostatic hyperplasia), a recent prostate massage, a bladder infection, or even cycling or ejaculation shortly before the test.
When should you consider having your prostate-specific antigen measured?
It may be advisable to have a PSA test if you have symptoms that could indicate prostate problems, such as urinary problems or blood in the urine. The test is sometimes also performed in men who have an increased risk of prostate cancer, for example if it runs in the family. Always discuss with your doctor whether a PSA test is appropriate in your situation.
How is prostate-specific antigen measured and how is the result assessed?
PSA is measured using a finger-prick blood test. The result indicates how much PSA is present per millilitre of blood. The normal level depends on your age. If your level is elevated, your doctor will consider other factors, such as your age, symptoms and any previous PSA results, to determine whether further investigation is necessary.
What conditions can be associated with an abnormal prostate-specific antigen level?
Conditions that can be associated with an abnormal PSA level include inflammation of the prostate, benign prostate enlargement, prostate cancer and, in some cases, urinary tract infections. The level may also be temporarily elevated after surgery or a procedure involving the prostate.
What are the recommended next steps if your prostate-specific antigen level is elevated?
If your PSA level is elevated, your doctor will usually discuss the result with you first. Sometimes the test is repeated after a few weeks to see whether the level decreases. Depending on the result and your symptoms, further investigation may be necessary, such as a physical examination, an ultrasound or a prostate biopsy. Together with your doctor, you can determine what is most appropriate in your situation.
This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice from a doctor. If your symptoms persist or you are concerned, always contact your doctor.
