Benefits of the testĪ PSA test may help detect prostate cancer at an early stage. Discussing with your doctor the benefits, limitations and potential risks of the PSA test can help you make an informed decision. Medical organizations vary in their recommendations about who should - and who shouldn't - get a PSA screening test. Other reasons for PSA testsįor those who have already been diagnosed with prostate cancer, the PSA test may be used to: A diagnosis of cancer is based on the biopsy results. Abnormal results in these tests may lead your doctor to recommend a prostate biopsy.ĭuring a prostate biopsy, samples of prostate tissue are removed for laboratory examination. Neither the PSA test nor the digital rectal exam provides enough information for your doctor to diagnose prostate cancer. By feeling or pressing on the prostate, the doctor may be able to judge whether it has abnormal lumps or hard areas. In this test, your doctor inserts a lubricated, gloved finger into your rectum to reach the prostate. Another common screening test, usually done in addition to a PSA test, is a digital rectal exam. The PSA test is only one tool used to screen for early signs of prostate cancer. The PSA test can detect high levels of PSA in the blood but doesn't provide precise diagnostic information about the condition of the prostate. However, many noncancerous conditions also can increase the PSA level. Prostate cancer can cause elevated levels of PSA. Early detection may be an important tool in getting appropriate and timely treatment. Prostate cancer is common, and it is a frequent cause of cancer death.
0 kommentar(er)
