Prostatic Specific Antigen (PSA)

The prostate gland is a part of the male reproductive system. It is about the size of a walnut and is located in front of the rectum and just below the bladder. The prostate gland produces the liquid part of semen that transports the sperm cells. Prostatic Specific Antigen (PSA) is the test used to detect prostate cancer and to follow up with patient treatment. Prostate cancer is the most common cancer and the second leading cause of cancer deaths in men. Prostate cancer when detected early is very treatable. The PSA blood test should be done at the age of 40, then annually with your physical. Your healthcare provider should also perform the digital rectal exam during your physical.

A normal PSA result should fall between 0-4 ng/mL.

Prostate cancer, prostatitis, and benign prostatic hypertrophy can cause abnormal results. Any abnormal results must be brought to your healthcare provider's attention.