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When it comes to male reproductive health, prostate issues are a common concern. The prostate is a tiny gland, located below the bladder in men, that plays a role in the production of semen. Certain conditions associated with the prostate, such as enlargement or cancer, can affect urinary and reproductive functions in males, which is why it is important to get regular screenings.
The Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) test is a diagnostic tool commonly used to detect any abnormalities in the prostate gland. Let us take a detailed look at how it works and the role it plays in maintaining prostate health.
What Is A PSA Test?
A PSA test is a screening tool that measures the level of PSA in the blood. The prostate-specific antigen is a protein found in the prostatic tissue, which, when elevated, can determine whether or not the patient will require additional testing for cancer or other prostate conditions.
In an interaction with the OnlyMyHealth team, Dr Kunjan Lila, HOD Surgical Pathology, Metropolis Healthcare, suggested that the risk of cancer is minimal with a PSA less than 4 ng/mL. However, a study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that PSA levels alone are not definitive for prostate cancer, as some cases occur below 4 ng/mL and many between 4 and 10 ng/mL are benign.
Therefore, Dr Lila recommended getting a digital rectal examination, transrectal ultrasonography, and tissue diagnosis if PSA levels are at or above 4ng/ml, to get a conclusive result.
High PSA Levels Does Not Always Mean Prostate Cancer
Elevated PSA levels can occur due to several factors other than prostate cancer.
According to the National Cancer Institute (NCI), several benign (not cancerous) conditions can cause a person’s PSA level to rise, particularly prostatitis (inflammation of the prostate) and benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) (enlargement of the prostate).
In addition, age, prostate gland size, a recent prostate biopsy, and inflammation or infection of the prostate can also lead to increased PSA levels. Interestingly, ejaculation or vigorous exercise, such as cycling, in the 2 days before testing and certain drugs may also elevate PSA levels.
Also Read: Signs Your Prostate Is Healthy: What Men Need To Know
Symptoms That Should Urge You To Get Tested
Many symptoms can indicate an unhealthy prostate. These include:
- Frequent urination, especially at night (nocturia)
- Urgency to urinate
- Difficulty starting or maintaining a urine stream
- Weak urine stream
- Dribbling at the end of urination
- Incomplete emptying of the bladder
- Burning urination
- Blood in urine or semen
- Straining to pass urine
Conclusion
Maintaining a healthy prostate involves assessing your risk factors for different prostate conditions and getting regular screenings for them. While the PSA test is not a conclusive screening method to confirm a diagnosis, it is a preliminary test that helps determine whether or not you need further testing. Elevated levels of PSA can definitely indicate an abnormality in the prostate, which could indicate prostate cancer or other prostate conditions, such as prostatitis or BPH.
