Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) is a protein that is produced in prostate cells. Its determination is carried out in laboratory conditions. PSA analysis reveals cancer in the prostate. Often it is called a tumor or biological marker. However, it should be noted that an increase in antigen level does not in all cases indicate the presence of a tumor process in the prostate. In other words, it would be incorrect to call PSA analysis specific tumor.
The antigen circulates in the blood in a small amount. This is the norm. An increase in level may indicate the development of a tumor. However, in this case, the concentration itself is not sufficiently informative for the diagnosis of cancer or other pathologies in the prostate. An exception may be only the case of too high levels of antigen. At the same time, PSA is considered a very significant indicator in determining further diagnostic measures and conducting possible therapy.
PSA analysis is considered a mandatory step along with transrectal ultrasound and rectal digital examination for detection of prostate cancer. In addition, determining the level of antigen allows us to evaluate the effectiveness of the treatment used in people with a diagnosed tumor.
If the PSA analysis shows an increase in concentration, then this may indicate a relapse of malignant formation in the prostate. This “biochemical relapse” usually precedes the clinical manifestations of cancer.
According to the recommendations of many experts, PSA analysis should be performed for men over forty-five to fifty years old annually. As practice shows, age is the most common triggering factor for prostate cancer. In addition, heredity, improper diet, and more can contribute to its growth.
PSA analysis. Decryption
Laboratory blood test results show antigen levels. Using an advanced analysis, the concentration of free and total prostate-specific antigen is detected. Doctors use these parameters when establishing a ratio.
General antigen results are usually expressed in ng / ml. Most experts take the norm below 4.0 ng / ml. It should be noted that today there is no universally accepted single figure.
According to the proposal of the European community of urologists, for the interpretation of PSA, a blood test is expressed in nomograms. They conduct a general assessment of antigen in relation to the size of the prostate and the age of the patient.
The result of the PSA analysis should be discussed with the doctor.
Further activities will depend on several factors:
- the results of transrectal ultrasound, digital rectal examination;
- level of increase in antigen;
- symptoms;
- health conditions;
- age.
In this regard, there are two medical tactics. One is expectant, the other is active. Experts resort to the first tactic (ordinary regular observation) quite rarely. As a rule, additional studies are prescribed to clarify the diagnosis and the possible course of treatment.
The detection of prostate cancer does not in all cases imply the need for therapeutic intervention. This is mainly due to the fact that the identified tumor formations can develop very slowly, and there is not always a threat to the patient’s life. When active cancer is detected in the case of a rapidly developing formation, the concentration of PSA is not always clearly increased. In some cases, it may remain within normal limits. However, it should be noted that such a phenomenon is extremely rare.