PSA Test Results for Prostate Cancer

High PSA test results will generally give your first indication of prostate cancer, alongside a digital rectal exam (DRE).

PSA aka Prostate Specific Antigen is a protein enzyme produced in the prostate gland and released in to the blood stream thereafter.

After a blood work analysis, the resulting PSA test score shows how much of this enzyme you're producing, and your probability of having prostate cancer.

Normal PSA Scores

- 15% of men with psa levels less than 4 ng/ml develop prostate cancer.

- 31% of men with prostate cancer screening between 4 - 10 ng/ml develop prostate cancer.

- 50% - 65% of men with psa scores over 10 ng/ml develop prostate cancer.

An important part of the your results is finding both the;

1. Total amount of PSA in your blood.

2. Ratio of free vs bound PSA.

Prostate PSA Test Results and Cancer

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

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

Elevated PSA Range

- Normal PSA: 0-4 ng/ml

- Slightly Elevated PSA: 4-10 ng/ml

- Moderately Elevated PSA: 10-20 ng/ml

- Highly Elevated PSA: 20+ ng/ml

Good PSA Readings (Free to Total Ratio)

The main differance between the PSA test readings 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 a higher bound PSA ratio.

- An enlarged prostate and prostatitis will have a higher free PSA ratio.

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

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

High PSA Test Velocity (PSA-V)

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

Average PSA Test 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 average PSA readings double in less than three years your doctor will most likely order a biopsy, to look in to the problem further and discuss possible prostate cancer treatment options.