One of the first terms that comes to mind when discussing prostate health is PSA. The PSA test plays an important role in diagnosing conditions common in men as they age, such as prostate cancer, benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), and prostatitis. However, there is also widespread confusion about what PSA is, what normal levels mean, and whether elevated levels always indicate cancer.

In this article, you’ll find answers to the most frequently asked questions about the PSA test, accompanied by expert insights from Prof. Dr. Volkan İzol.

What Is PSA?

PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) is a protein produced by the prostate gland that mixes with semen to increase sperm motility. However, small amounts of PSA also enter the bloodstream and can be measured in the blood. The PSA test determines the level of this protein in the blood. Prof. Dr. Volkan İzol emphasizes that PSA is produced exclusively by prostate cells and is therefore an indispensable marker for the diagnosis and monitoring of prostate-related diseases.

What Should the Normal PSA Level Be?

Genel kabul gören PSA normal değeri < 2.5 ng/mL ng/mL aralığıdır.

However, this limit is not fixed and may vary depending on age, a family history of prostate cancer, and existing medical conditions.

However, a high PSA level does not always indicate cancer. Sometimes, PSA levels can rise due to benign causes, such as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) or inflammation of the prostate (prostatitis). For this reason, an elevated PSA level must always be evaluated by a specialist.

Elevated PSA: Is It Cancer, BPH, or Prostatitis?

1. Prostate Cancer and PSA

The PSA test is one of the most basic methods used in prostate cancer screening. PSA levels are typically elevated in men with prostate cancer, but an elevated PSA level does not necessarily mean cancer. Similarly, PSA levels may be low in some cases of prostate cancer.

Prof. Dr. Volkan İzol notes that in patients with elevated PSA levels, they consider not only the PSA level itself but also parameters such as the rate of PSA increase (PSA velocity), the free PSA ratio, and PSA density based on prostate volume.

2. Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) and PSA

BPH occurs as a result of the enlargement of the prostate gland with age and is most often characterized by urinary problems. In BPH, PSA levels are typically mildly to moderately elevated. However, this elevation is not related to cancer.

3. Prostatitis (Inflammation of the Prostate) and PSA

Prostatitis is one of the most common causes of elevated PSA levels in younger men. PSA levels can rise to very high levels, particularly in cases of acute bacterial prostatitis. After treatment, PSA levels return to normal. For this reason, it is essential to assess whether an active infection is present before performing a PSA test.

When Should a PSA Test Be Performed?

Experts recommend annual PSA monitoring starting at age 40 for men with a family history of prostate cancer or other risk factors, and at age 50 for others. Prof. Dr. Volkan İzol emphasizes that early diagnosis can save lives and highlights the importance of regular PSA testing, particularly for men with a family history of prostate cancer.

What Should You Keep in Mind Before a PSA Test?

• Sexual abstinence for 48 hours prior to the PSA test is recommended
• If you have a urinary tract infection, the test should be postponed
• A digital rectal exam, riding a bike, or ejaculation can temporarily raise PSA levels

Situations like these can affect the test results and lead to misinterpretations. For this reason, the timing of the PSA test should be carefully planned.

Conclusion: PSA Monitoring Can Save Lives

PSA is one of the most important parameters in assessing prostate health. Although an elevated PSA level does not always indicate cancer, it should be carefully evaluated and interpreted in conjunction with other findings.

The PSA test is crucial for early diagnosis. As Prof. Dr. Volkan İzol has emphasized, the PSA test enables the early detection of prostate cancer and significantly increases the success of treatment. If you want to protect your prostate health and assess your risks, it is important to consult a urologist for regular PSA monitoring.

PSA Test Price 

The PSA test is a basic blood test used to assess prostate health. The cost may vary depending on the laboratory where the test is performed, the technology of the equipment used, and the hospital’s pricing policy. Since costs vary between public and private healthcare facilities, the best way to obtain accurate pricing information is to contact the facility where the test will be performed.