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Prostate Specific Antigen

PSA Free and Total PSA Test in Delhi & Gurgaon


A brief on Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA)

Prostate is a walnut size gland which helps in production of seminal fluid and control of urination in men.

Prostate enlargement is a common problem associated with aging in men & is also known as Benighn Prostatic Hyperplasia.

PSA is a protein produced by normal as well as cancerous cells of the prostate gland. Amount of PSA present in the blood is used as a screening test for prostate cancer, but an increase is also commonly seen in cases of BPH.

PSA exists in both bound and free form in the blood. Total PSA is the total amount of both bound and free form of PSA present in the blood, while free PSA test tells us about the free PSA present in the blood.

Ratio of free and total PSA is a more sensitive indicator of the presence of malignancy as compared to total or free PSA alone. People with benign enlargement of the prostate have a greater proportion of free PSA as compared to those with malignancy. Additionally, PSA levels may change due to intake of antibiotics, a per rectal examination, a prostate biopsy or hormone therapy.

Always consult your physician in case of any increase in your PSA levels.

Understanding PSA Test: Assessing Prostate Health

The Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) test is a blood test used primarily to screen for prostate cancer and monitor prostate health. PSA is a protein produced by cells in the prostate gland. Elevated PSA levels can indicate various prostate conditions, including inflammation, enlargement (benign prostatic hyperplasia or BPH), or prostate cancer.

Importance of PSA Test:

    Prostate Cancer Screening: PSA testing aids in detecting prostate cancer in its early stages when treatment is more effective.
    Monitoring Prostate Health: Regular PSA tests help monitor changes in PSA levels over time, assisting in the evaluation of prostate health.

Interpretation of PSA Results:

Elevated PSA Levels: Higher-than-normal PSA levels may indicate prostate conditions like inflammation (prostatitis), BPH, or prostate cancer. However, elevated PSA doesn't necessarily confirm prostate cancer and might require further evaluation.

What to Expect During a PSA Test:

The PSA test involves a blood draw, typically performed in a laboratory. No special preparation is usually needed.

FAQs about PSA Test:

Question:At what age should I start getting PSA tests?
Answer:The decision to start PSA screening and its frequency should be discussed with your healthcare provider. Typically, discussions about PSA screening begin at around age 50 for most men, earlier for those with higher risk factors.

Question:Can medications or prostate conditions affect PSA levels?
Answer:Yes, certain medications, prostate infections, BPH, recent ejaculation, or recent physical activities like cycling may affect PSA levels. It's crucial to inform your doctor about any such conditions or activities before the test.

Question:Can a high PSA level confirm prostate cancer?
Answer:An elevated PSA level is not definitive for prostate cancer but can indicate the need for further evaluation, which may include additional tests like a prostate biopsy.

Question:What if my PSA levels are slightly elevated?
Answer:Slight elevations in PSA levels might be due to non-cancerous conditions. Your doctor might recommend monitoring PSA levels over time or additional tests for a conclusive diagnosis.

Question:Are there lifestyle changes that can impact PSA levels?
Answer:A. Certain lifestyle factors, like maintaining a healthy weight, regular exercise, and a balanced diet, may positively impact prostate health, potentially influencing PSA levels.

Questions to Ask Your Doctor about PSA:

When discussing your PSA test results with your doctor, consider asking:

  • Interpretation of Results: What do my PSA test results indicate about my prostate health? Are there any concerns or abnormalities?
  • Do I need a PSA total &/OR PSA free ?
  • PSA Levels Interpretation: Are my PSA levels within the normal range for my age and overall health?
  • Potential Causes of Elevated PSA: What conditions or factors could be causing elevated PSA levels besides prostate cancer?
  • Follow-up Testing or Further Evaluation: Do my results suggest the need for additional tests or procedures for a definitive diagnosis?
  • Risk Factors for Prostate Cancer: What are my individual risk factors for prostate cancer, and how do they affect the interpretation of my PSA levels?
  • Impact of Medications or Lifestyle: Can medications or lifestyle changes influence PSA levels, and if so, how?
  • Prostate Cancer Risk Assessment: Based on my PSA levels and other risk factors, what is my estimated risk of developing prostate cancer?
  • Family History Influence: How does a family history of prostate cancer affect the interpretation of my PSA levels?
  • Management Options: What are the management options if further tests confirm prostate cancer or other prostate conditions?
  • Potential Risks of Treatment: What are the potential risks associated with various treatment options for prostate conditions?
  • Follow-up and Monitoring: How frequently should I undergo PSA testing for monitoring purposes?
  • Impact on Quality of Life: How might a diagnosis of prostate cancer or other prostate conditions affect my daily life and overall health?
  • Clinical Guidelines and Recommendations: Are there specific guidelines or recommendations I should consider based on my PSA levels and health status?
  • Prostate Health Improvement Strategies: What lifestyle modifications or preventive measures can I adopt to improve my prostate health and potentially lower PSA levels?