Today, thanks to PSA, 8 out of 10 men are diagnosed in the early stages of the disease, with a survival rate exceeding 85%. The most important tool in the medical community for the early detection and effective management of the disease is the PSA test.
What is the function of the prostate and the prostate-specific antigen in the body?
The prostate’s goal is to produce a fluid that enhances the vitality of sperm for efficient fertilization. Additionally, it produces an enzyme, prostate-specific antigen (PSA), which helps liquefy sperm. PSA is produced by the epithelial cells of the prostate and passes into the seminal plasma.
At what age should men undergo a prostate examination?
The prostate gland is susceptible to inflammations called prostatitis, appearing even at younger ages, and benign enlargement (hyperplasia), which typically begins around the age of 50 and gradually causes noticeable symptoms. Prostate cancer also emerges around 45-50.
PSA testing should be done preventively from the age of 45 and above to address any impending issues early. Specifically, for men with first-degree relatives with prostate cancer, PSA measurement is recommended to start from the age of 40, as the likelihood of developing cancer is doubled compared to the general population. The earlier someone is diagnosed, the more chances there are that their children will not be affected.
What is the PSA test?
The PSA test is a blood test that can detect prostate cancer. Specialized analyzers are used to derive results.
What do elevated PSA levels indicate?
There are various reasons why PSA levels may be elevated, including:
Catheterization of the urinary bladder.
Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).
Prostate cancer.
Acute or chronic prostatitis.
Medical procedures (prostate biopsy, cystoscopy, digital rectal examination).
How are the results evaluated?
The PSA value is not absolute; the urologist will assess not only the current PSA value but also its rate of change over time. Regular check-ups from a certain age and onwards are crucial. A rapid increase in PSA raises concerns, as it is more likely to indicate cancer. Conversely, when PSA values fluctuate, it usually suggests benign prostatic hyperplasia, although not definitively.
Additionally, the urologist will evaluate PSA value and fluctuation in conjunction with the findings of the digital rectal examination and decide if further examination is required. When there is suspicion of prostate cancer, the urologist conducts multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging of the prostate and then performs a targeted biopsy with a special ultrasound head, taking multiple samples from the prostate for histological examination.