PSA Profile
Understanding PSA Profile
What is PSA Profile?
A PSA Test is taken to detect whether a person has developed prostate cancer. Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) is a protein secreted by the prostate gland. This protein is produced by normal as well as cancerous cells. Cancerous prostate gland start multiplying the production of the PSA at an abnormal rate. This test measures the PSA levels (both free and total) in blood. PSA is considered to be a tumor marker since its levels in the blood are elevated in prostate cancer. It serves as a useful tool to monitor the progression of prostate cancer. The most frequent conditions that cause an elevation in PSA level are prostatitis (inflammation of the prostate) and benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).
What is PSA Profile used for?
You should opt for a PSA Profile test if you notice the following symptoms:
• Difficulty while urinating
• Frequent urination, especially during the night.
• Constant dribbling of urine
What does PSA Profile measure?
Contains 2 testsPSA (Prostate Specific Antigen) Total
A PSA test measures the level of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) in the blood. PSA is a protein secreted by the prostate gland in males and is found in two forms: bound PSA (bound to other proteins) and free PSA. A PSA blood test measures both free and bound PSA levels. Most of the PSA produced in the body passes in the seminal fluid and only a small amount is secreted into the blood.
PSA levels in the blood get elevated in conditions affecting prostate health, like prostate cancer and prostate enlargement (benign prostatic enlargement or BPH). This test is used as a primary screening test before conducting other diagnostic procedures.
Know more about PSA (Prostate Specific Antigen) Total