GetTested’s PSA Test

GetTested offers the PSA Test, which measures the level of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) in your blood. The prostate gland releases PSA, and in healthy men, these levels are usually low. Age, prostate enlargement, inflammation, or prostate cancer can cause these levels to rise. Remember, activities like cycling or recent sexual activity may also temporarily increase PSA levels.

Benefits of PSA Testing

We use the PSA Test at GetTested mainly for screening prostate cancer, targeting men over 50 or those with a family history of the disease. However, high PSA levels don't always signal cancer; benign conditions like BPH and prostatitis can also elevate them. If we suspect prostate cancer, we might recommend a rectal exam or ultrasound. Sometimes, we might also consider a biopsy, though it carries certain risks.

Interpreting PSA Levels

You can find PSA in both healthy and cancerous prostate tissues. While PSA levels generally relate to prostate tissue volume, they don't always provide a clear picture. Prostate cancer, especially at advanced stages, usually shows the highest PSA levels. In prostatitis, these levels can surge up to 40–50 µg/L but decrease as the inflammation eases. The 4 - 10 µg/L range is critical, indicating increased cancer risk. Typically, men under 50 should have PSA levels below 2.5 µg/L, and men over 70 with benign hyperplasia might have levels as high as 6.5 µg/L. We assess PSA results alongside other symptoms, clinical findings, and age factors. Treatments for benign prostatic hyperplasia, like Finasteride/Propecia, can also reduce PSA levels by shrinking the prostate.

Early Detection and Decision Making

Detecting prostate cancer early with the PSA Test can help prevent serious complications and decrease mortality. But, the treatments might lead to side effects like incontinence or erectile dysfunction. That's why some men, especially older ones without significant symptoms, might decide against prostate cancer treatment. They weigh the treatment's potential side effects against their overall health and life expectancy.

High PSA Values: What They Mean

High PSA levels might point to cancer, but benign prostate issues are a more common cause. To confirm cancer, we recommend a transrectal ultrasound (TRUS) and a prostate biopsy. It's also wise to avoid activities that can temporarily raise PSA levels, like cycling or ejaculation, for at least 24 hours before taking the test.