PSA
Meaning of PSA: PSA is a protein measured in the blood that reflects prostate gland activity and can be elevated by cancer or noncancerous conditions.
Definition of PSA
PSA, or prostate-specific antigen, is a protein produced by cells of the prostate gland and released in small amounts into the bloodstream. A blood test can measure the level of PSA circulating in the blood, and this measurement is used as part of the evaluation of prostate health.
PSA levels can rise above what is typical for several reasons, including prostate cancer, benign prostatic hyperplasia, which is a noncancerous enlargement of the prostate, and inflammation or infection of the gland known as prostatitis. Because of this overlap, an elevated PSA level does not by itself confirm the presence of cancer.
PSA testing is often considered alongside other findings, such as a physical examination of the prostate and, when indicated, imaging or biopsy, to help determine why a level is elevated and whether further evaluation is needed.
Also known as
Used in a sentence
The laboratory report showed a PSA level above the reference range, prompting further urologic evaluation.
Good to know
An elevated PSA level can result from benign prostatic hyperplasia or prostatitis as well as from cancer, so the finding is interpreted together with other clinical information rather than on its own.