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PSA

Also known as: Total PSA, Free PSA, Complexed PSA
Formal name: Prostate Specific Antigen
Related tests: Digital Rectal Exam (DRE), Tumor markers
At A Glance
 
Why get tested?
To screen asymptomatic and symptomatic men for prostate cancer, to help determine the necessity for a biopsy of the prostate, to monitor the effectiveness of treatment for prostate cancer, and to detect recurrence of prostate cancer; there is currently no consensus about using PSA tests to screen for prostate cancer.

When to get tested?
When a man has symptoms suggestive of prostate cancer such as difficult, painful, and/or frequent urination; may also be ordered during and at regular intervals after prostate cancer treatment. There is continued debate among experts and national organizations over when and how often to order the PSA test to screen asymptomatic men. The frequency of prostate cancer screening is an individual decision that should be determined through discussion with your physician. (For specific details, see prostate cancer screening for adults and adults 50 and up).

Sample required?
A blood sample drawn from a vein in the arm



This article was last reviewed on May 13, 2009.
This page was last modified on May 13, 2009.
The review date indicates when the article was last reviewed from beginning to end to ensure that it reflects the most current science. A review may not require any modifications to the article, so the two dates may not always agree.
The modified date indicates that one or more changes were made to the page. Such changes may or may not result from a full review of the page, so the two dates may not always agree.
 
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