Prostate specific antigen can be termed as PSA. This is a protein substance produced in the cells of men's prostate gland. An increased in the amount of protein in the blood would indicate medical problems. A considerably high PSA level in blood is occasionally considered as a marker of diseases such as prostate cancer and benign prostatic hyperplasia. Basically, PSA test is conducted for the early prostate cancer detection. However, a high PSA level alone is not sufficient to confirm prostate cancer, for which positive PSA test is sometimes accompanied by biopsy and digital rectal exam (DRE).
The PSA level is measured in blood by nanograms per millimeter. Usually, when the level is less than 4ng/ml, it is normal. On the other hand, a result less than 4-10 ng/ml would determine a 25% possibility of acquiring prostate cancer. PSA levels between the range between 4-10 ng/ml could also signify prostatitis or benign prostatic hyperplasia. A result higher than 10 ng/ml indicates a potential risk of having prostate cancer. In fact, the results n PSA testing would vary from time to time. According to research, more or less 15% of men with 4 ng/ml PSA level in blood are diagnosed of having prostate cancer. Also, in another research, only 25%-35% of men with increase PSA levels were diagnosed of prostate cancer. Occasionally, high PSA level might indicate non-cancerous prostate enlargement. Simultaneously, low levels also do not exclude the chance of cancer.
To be brief, this prostrate test is not definitive, as it would give 'false negative' and 'false positives' results. False positive tests refer to the elevated level of PSA in the blood even without the presence of cancer cells. False negative shows normal PSA level in the blood, but cancer cells are still present. But this test could still help many people to guarantee an early diagnosis. Therefore, to know more on the details about PSA testing, it is always good to go to your doctor to discuss the medical condition.
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