Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) Test – Screening for Prostate Health

The Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) Test is used to measure the level of PSA in the blood, a protein produced by the prostate. Elevated levels may indicate prostate cancer, prostate enlargement, or infection.

Indications for PSA Test:

● Routine screening: Commonly used in men over the age of 50 or those with a family history of prostate cancer.

● Symptoms of prostate issues: If you experience difficulty urinating, frequent urination, or painful urination, a PSA test can help evaluate prostate health.

● Monitoring prostate cancer: PSA levels are monitored in men who have been diagnosed with prostate cancer to track treatment effectiveness or disease progression.

How PSA Test Works:

● A blood sample is drawn and sent to the laboratory for analysis. The PSA level is measured in nanograms per milliliter (ng/mL).

Normal Range:

● PSA level of less than 4 ng/mL is typically considered normal. Higher levels may require further investigation.

Abnormal Test Significance:

● Elevated PSA levels: May indicate prostate cancer, benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), or prostatitis. However, it is not specific to cancer, and further tests like biopsy or imaging may be needed for diagnosis.

Management Based on Results:

● For elevated PSA: Further evaluation in the form of a prostate biopsy or imaging may be needed to confirm or rule out cancer.““

● For benign conditions: Management may include medications, lifestyle changes, or watchful waiting for BPH or prostatitis.

Price in India:

Approx. ₹500 – ₹1,500 for a PSA test.