Men have a unique small gland just below the bladder surrounding the urethra, and normally is the same approximate size and shape of a walnut to kiwi, this gland is called the prostate. The prostate has the potential of becoming abnormally enlarged or cancerous as men progress in age.
To monitor this gland, two basic tests have been developed to screen for warning signs and prompt early treatment of potential problems. First, the rectal digital exam which allows the physician to physically feel the prostate to check for obvious enlargement or abnormal nodules. Second is the blood prostate-specific antigen test (PSA test) a screening for prostate cancer. These tests are stressed and become more frequent after a man reaches 40 years old, but are not recommended after 75 years old.
Collection of PSA is a simple blood (serum) test, usually added to a number of other tests already being ordered at the time of a physical examination.
Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) is a protein created by the prostate and naturally occurs in the bloodstream. Strong guidelines have been established for what is considered a normal value of PSA, they are as follows:
•under 50 years <2.5 ng/ml
•50 – 59 years <3.5 ng/ml
•60 – 69 years <4.5 ng/ml
•older than 70 years <6.5 ng/ml
There is a slight variance between laboratories making it doubly important to discuss with a physicain the meaning of the results of a PSA test.
An inflammed or enlarged prostate can produce abnormal PSA results, as well as a recent urinary tract infection, sexual activity and certain medical proceudres or diagnostic testing. Depending upon the results of the testing, a physician may desire to monitor the values or request additonal testing. A physician will refer a gentleman for a prostate biopsy to obtain a direct tissue sample of the prostate to verify a diagnosis of cancer.
A man already diagnosed with cancer may still routinely have a PSA test drawn to monitor treatment efficacy; check for any changes in the prostate tumor; or use as a screening for a return of cancer.
Prostate cancer is the second leading type of cancer among men, second only to skin cancer, making the need for PSA testing an important component of a man’s general health screening. Despite the controversy involving the necessity of the test, it has proven more beneficial than a detriment to men that have had the simple test performed.