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What Are Bad PSA Levels?

Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) is a protein created by the cells of a prostate gland. Because high levels of PSA can be indicative of a tumor or other problem, it is frequently tested to determine if there are potential health problems in men.

  1. Significance

    • According to the National Cancer Institute, because prostate cancer can progress within minimal symptoms, having a prostate test and checking PSA levels is extremely important in early detection and treatment.

    Function

    • PSA levels rise with age. According to the Lehigh Valley Hospital and Health System, a person 40 years old and younger will have a PSA level of less than two (measured in nanograms per milliliter). A PSA level of between four and 10 represents a 25 percent cancer risk, while 10 and above is a 67 percent cancer risk.

    Considerations

    • An elevated PSA level does not necessary mean prostate cancer. According to the National Cancer Institute, PSAs also can be created by more benign and easily treatable prostate conditions including prostatitis and benign prostatic hyperplasia.

    Time Frame

    • According to the National Cancer Institute, annual PSA tests are recommended for all men 50 and older. However, many doctors also recommend annual PSA tests for people 40 and older with higher risk factors for prostate cancer; black men are the most likely to develop prostate cancer, and men whose brothers or fathers had prostate cancer are at an elevated risk.

    Types

    • A blood test can reveal the level of PSAs in the bloodstream. PSA tests are also done during prostate cancer treatment as a way to help gauge a person's responsiveness to treatment.

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