How to Read a PSA Test
Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) is a protein produced by the cells of the prostate, a small gland that encircles the urethra in males and produces the fluid that makes up the semen. Most of the PSA is released into the semen, except for a small amount that is released into the bloodstream. A total PSA test measures the amount of PSA in the bloodstream and is used by doctors as a tumor marker to screen for and monitor prostate cancer. If you had your PSA tested and you are trying to read your PSA results, you need to consult your doctor for accurate interpretation of your PSA results.
Instructions
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Scan your PSA result report for the number the laboratory reported for your total PSA. PSA is generally measured in nanograms of PSA per milliliter of blood (ng/ml).
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Compare your PSA result against the normal ranges listed by the testing laboratory. Normal ranges vary from lab to lab and among doctors depending on individuals' risk for prostate cancer. Generally, though, a PSA of less than 4.0 ng/ml is considered normal. If your PSA result is lower than 4.0 ng/ml, it is considered normal and if it is higher than the four, your PSA result is considered abnormal and warrants further evaluation.
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Realize the presence of many factors, including prostate cancer, that may cause elevated PSA levels. Benign prostate tumors or enlargements, prostate infections, certain drugs like chemotherapeutic medications, prostate biopsy, direct rectal exam (DRE) and rigorous physical activity affecting the prostate (like biking) may cause a temporary rise in PSA levels.
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Know that a PSA result on its own is not diagnostic of prostate cancer. Generally, a PSA blood test is followed by a direct rectal exam (DRE) where the doctor examines the structure of the prostate to look for enlargements, swellings or tumors. If necessary, a prostate biopsy (removal of a small amount of tissue for testing) follows to test suspicious findings.
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Discuss your PSA lab results with your doctor. Your doctor should consider the significance of your PSA results in the light of other factors (like age and drug use) and findings (like DRE results and infection screen) to determine if additional testing is needed.
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Tips & Warnings
DRE and biopsy should always be performed before collecting blood for PSA testing or six weeks after to avoid falsely elevated PSA results.
More specific PSA testing, such as PSA velocity (change of PSA levels over a period of time), PSA density (comparison of the PSA level and the volume of the prostate) and age-specific PSA (since PSA levels naturally increase with age) are available for additional PSA evaluation and your doctor may choose to test you for any.
If your PSA result is high, but other laboratory tests, DRE and/or biopsy results are normal, your doctor may order a repeat PSA test six weeks after the initial testing.
