What is a PSA?
PSA stands for prostate specific antigen. PSA is a protein made by the prostate and is made by normal prostate cells but also by prostate cancer cells. A simple blood test is used to test PSA levels in the body.
Why is PSA-testing used?
PSA can be used to monitor the function of the prostate and aid in the diagnosis of prostate cancer. PSA levels can also be increased in other conditions such as a benign enlarged prostate or urinary tract infection or due to lifestyle such as vigorous exercise, prostate stimulation, recent ejaculation or anal sex.
Advantages of PSA testing
- A PSA test can help pick up prostate cancer before you have symptoms
- A PSA test can help pick up a fast-growing cancer at an early stage
Disadvantages of PSA testing
- 75% of men with a raised PSA do not have prostate cancer
- PSA testing can miss prostate cancer – 1/7 men with a normal PSA level may have prostate cancer
- You may be diagnosed with a slow growing cancer that would never have caused problems or shortened your life. A diagnosis may cause anxiety and treatment side effects can affect daily life including urinary, bowel and erection problems
How to prepare for PSA testing
Before having a PSA test, it is important not to have:
- an active urinary tract infection
- ejaculated (by sex or masturbation) in the previous 48 hours
- exercised heavily in the previous 48 hours
- had an examination of the back passage (rectal examination) in the previous week
- received anal sex in the previous 48 hours before the test
Each of these may result in a high PSA result and could result in unnecessary further investigation
Learn more
Further information can be found at: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/psa-test/
Resources used
https://patient.info/mens-health/prostate-and-urethra-problems/prostate-specific-antigen-test-psa
https://www.baus.org.uk/_userfiles/pages/files/Patients/Leaflets/PSA%20Advice.pdf