The PSA blood test for prostate cancer

PSA stands for prostate-specific antigen, a protein made by prostate tissue. Prostate cancer can raise PSA, while an enlarged prostate, inflammation, infection and recent activity involving the prostate can also affect it. Some prostate cancers are present without a clearly raised PSA.

There is no single PSA value that answers every situation. A clinician considers the laboratory range, age, prostate size, medicines, urinary symptoms, infection, previous results and whether the level is changing over time. A higher result does not establish cancer, and a lower result does not remove every possibility.

PSA may also be checked after prostate cancer treatment. In that setting, its direction over a series of tests can provide useful information, but the expected pattern depends on the treatment received and must be interpreted by the treating team.

Review the result with the clinician who ordered it rather than interpreting the number in isolation. They may first look for a urine infection, repeat PSA after an appropriate interval, examine the prostate or discuss imaging and referral to a urologist. Further investigation is tailored to the overall pattern rather than triggered by one factor alone.

Tell the clinician about fever, pelvic discomfort, recent urinary procedures, current medicines and any recent ejaculation or vigorous cycling because timing can matter. Follow the laboratory's preparation instructions if another sample is planned.

Arrange an assessment for difficulty starting urine, a weak stream, increased frequency, blood in urine or semen, or persistent pain in the back, hips or pelvis. These symptoms have several possible causes and require assessment based on their features, not an assumption about cancer. Seek urgent care if you cannot pass urine, develop fever with shaking or confusion, pass heavy blood or clots, or have new leg weakness or loss of bladder or bowel control.

You could ask how this PSA compares with your earlier results, whether infection or medication may have changed it, and what a repeat test would clarify. Also ask what further examinations or scans are being considered and which urinary, neurological or pain symptoms should lead you to seek help sooner.