PSA analysis

Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) is a protein that is produced in the cells of the prostate gland. Its definition is carried out in the laboratory. PSA analysis reveals cancer in the prostate. It is often called a tumor or biological marker. However, it should be noted that an increase in the antigen level does not in all cases indicate a tumor process in the prostate. In other words, it would be incorrect to call the PSA analysis a specific tumor.

The antigen circulates in the blood in small amounts. This is the norm. Increasing the level may indicate the development of the tumor. However, the concentration itself is not sufficiently informative to diagnose cancer or other pathologies in the prostate. An exception may be only the case of too high a level of antigen. At the same time, PSA is considered a very important indicator in determining further diagnostic measures and conducting possible therapy.

PSA analysis is considered a mandatory stage, together with transrectal ultrasound and rectal finger examination in detecting prostate cancer. In addition, the determination of the antigen level makes it possible to evaluate the effectiveness of the treatment in people with a diagnosed tumor.

If the PSA analysis shows an increase in concentration, this may indicate a relapse of malignant formation in the prostate. This "biochemical relapse", as a rule, precedes the clinical manifestations of cancer.

According to the recommendations of many specialists, PSA analysis should be carried out to men over forty-five to fifty years of age each year. As practice shows, age is the most common provoking factor in the development of prostate cancer. In addition, to promote its growth can heredity, improper diet and stuff.

PSA analysis. Explanation

The results of a laboratory blood test show the level of antigen. With the help of extended analysis, the concentration of free and common prostate-specific antigen is revealed. These parameters are used by doctors when establishing the ratio.

The results of the total antigen are usually expressed in ng / ml. Most specialists take the level below 4.0 ng / ml as the norm. It should be noted that today there is no uniform single digit in the world.

According to the proposal of the European community of urologists, for the interpretation of PSA the blood test is expressed in nomograms. They make a general assessment of the antigen in relation to the size of the prostate and the age of the patient.

The result of the PSA analysis should be discussed with the doctor.

Further activities will depend on several factors:

- Results of transrectal ultrasound, digital rectal examination;

- the level of antigen enhancement;

- symptomatology;

- state of health;

- age.

In this regard, there are two medical tactics. One is expectant, the other is active. To the first tactic (regular regular observation), experts rarely resort. As a rule, additional studies are being performed to clarify the diagnosis and the possible course of treatment.

Detection of prostate cancer does not always imply the need for therapeutic effects. This is mainly due to the fact that the detected tumor formation can develop very slowly, and not always at the same time there is a threat to the life of the patient. If active cancer is detected in the case of rapidly developing formation, the PSA concentration is not always clearly increased. In some cases, it may remain within normal limits. However, it should be noted that such a phenomenon is extremely rare.