What Is a PSA Test?

PSA is a blood test that is performed to assess a man’s risk of having prostate cancer. PSA stands for prostatic specific antigen. It is a chemical that is produced by cells within the prostate gland and small amounts are normally found in the blood stream. PSA is used in conjunction with a DRE (rectal examination to assess a man’s prostate) to help determine the prostate cancer risk. 

The test is not entirely accurate; there are several factors that can alter PSA levels. These include:

1. Prostate cancer
2. BPH ( benign enlargement of the prostate gland)
3. Recent ejaculation
4. Urinary infections including prostatitis (inflammation of the prostate gland)
5. Urinary calculi

Serial measurements of PSA can provide more valuable information than a single sample and are used to help determine a man’s likelihood of having prostate cancer.  If there is a strong family history of prostate cancer within your family, screening should commence at age 40. If this is not the case you could be offered the test once over 50 years of age.

If your PSA is elevated this may lead to a prostate biopsy being recommended to further asses your risk of having prostate cancer.

A biopsy is an investigation that involves placing a small needle into the prostate gland to obtain samples of tissue. These are then sent to the laboratory where they are examined under a microscope looking for cancer cells.