How to Interpret PSA Test Results

Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) is a protein produced by the prostate gland, and is mostly released in the semen fluid. A small amount of the PSA, however, is released into the bloodstream and laboratory tests can measure this amount. Doctors use PSA levels to screen for, and monitor the treatment of prostate cancer. Although PSA by itself is not diagnostic for cancer, a PSA blood test along with a digital rectal exam help the doctors determine the need for a prostate biopsy in men.

Instructions

• 1

  Compare your PSA result to the normal range in your lab report. Normal ranges vary from lab to lab, but a total PSA level of less than 4 ng/ml of blood is considered normal.

• 2

  Consider factors that may have elevated your PSA level temporarily. Strenuous physical activity affecting the prostate, like bike riding, can cause a temporary elevation of PSA level. Some drugs and prostate infection can elevate PSA levels temporarily.

• 3

  Know that a digital rectal exam or prostate biopsy can cause a temporary rise in PSA levels. Doctors generally order PSA blood tests before performing digital rectal exams and several weeks after performing a biopsy.

• 4

  Keep in mind that a high PSA level does not diagnose prostate cancer. Men with high PSA levels and normal digital rectal exam generally get a repeat PSA testing six weeks to three months after the initial elevated level.

• 5

  Realize that an effective prostate cancer treatment lowers the level of PSA until it is at an almost undetectable level. If you are undergoing prostate cancer treatment, your PSA level should be low.