1. What Are PSA Levels?

PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) levels measure the amount of prostate-specific antigen in the blood. This protein is produced by both normal and malignant cells of the prostate gland.

2. How PSA Levels Are Measured

PSA levels are directly measured through blood tests and are not calculated using mathematical formulas. The measurement is typically reported in nanograms per milliliter (ng/mL).

3. Importance of PSA Testing

Details: PSA testing is primarily used for prostate cancer screening, monitoring treatment effectiveness, and detecting cancer recurrence. Elevated PSA levels may indicate prostate cancer, though other conditions like prostatitis or benign prostatic hyperplasia can also cause increases.

4. Using This Tool

Tips: Enter your measured PSA level in ng/mL. This tool simply records and displays your PSA measurement for reference.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a normal PSA level?
A: Generally, PSA levels below 4.0 ng/mL are considered normal, though age-specific ranges and other factors should be considered.

Q2: How often should PSA testing be done?
A: Testing frequency depends on individual risk factors, age, and previous PSA results. Consult with your healthcare provider for personalized recommendations.

Q3: Can PSA levels fluctuate?
A: Yes, PSA levels can vary due to factors like recent sexual activity, prostate exams, infections, or certain medications.

Q4: What does an elevated PSA level mean?
A: While elevated PSA can indicate prostate cancer, it can also be caused by benign conditions. Further diagnostic tests are usually needed.

Q5: Are there limitations to PSA testing?
A: PSA testing has limitations including false positives and false negatives. It should be interpreted in context with other clinical findings.