PSA Test Results

PSA is a protein enzyme produced in your prostate gland and released in to your blood stream.

The PSA test finds the amount of this enzyme in your blood.

PSA Accuracy

- 25% with "normal" PSA scores (< 4 ng/ml) develop prostate cancer.
- 80% with elevated PSA scores (> 4 ng/ml) develop prostate cancer.

An important part of the PSA test results is finding both the;

1. Total amount of PSA in your blood.
2. Ratio of free vs. bound PSA.

PSA Count

The amount of PSA in your blood may increase with other prostate conditions such prostatitis, enlarged prostate (BPH), or within two days after ejaculation.

Rest assured, even though your PSA test results may be high, it doesn't necessarily mean you have prostate cancer. Just a greater chance of getting it.

PSA Range

- Normal: 0-4 ng/ml
- Slightly Elevated: 4-10 ng/ml
- Moderately Elevated: 10-20 ng/ml
- Highly Elevated: 20+ ng/ml

PSA Ratio (Free to Total Ratio)

The main differance between the PSA score of prostatitis and enlarged prostate, compared to prostate cancer, is the ratio of free vs. bound PSA within your test sample.

- Prostate Cancer will have more bound PSA.

- An enlarged prostate and prostatitis will have more free PSA.

- If your free PSA is less than 25%, your risk for developing prostate cancer is between 10% to 20%.

- If your free PSA is less than 10%, your risk for developing prostate cancer jumps to around 50%.

Prostate Specific Antigen Velocity (PSA-V)

The faster your PSA score increases over time, the greater your chances of developing prostate cancer. It is a good idea to track your PSA readings over time, to determine your risk.

PSA Doubling Time (PSA-DT)

Another red flag. This calculation denotes the time it takes your PSA values to double. It may signify the aggressiveness of any prostate abnormalities, whether it's an enlarged prostate, prostatitis, or prostate cancer.

If your PSA readings double in less than three years your doctor will most likely order a biopsy, to look in to the problem further.