PSA Free and Total

PSA (prostate-specific antigen) is a protein produced by the prostate gland, and high levels of PSA in the blood may indicate prostate cancer or other prostate conditions. Here are some reasons why you may need to have your PSA Free and Total tested:

To screen for prostate cancer: PSA testing is commonly used as a screening tool for prostate cancer. PSA Free and Total tests are often done together to provide a more comprehensive evaluation of PSA levels in the blood.

To monitor prostate cancer: If you have been diagnosed with prostate cancer, your healthcare provider may use PSA testing to monitor your response to treatment and detect any recurrence of the cancer.

To evaluate prostate conditions: PSA testing may also be used to evaluate other prostate conditions, such as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) or prostatitis.

To assess the need for a prostate biopsy: If your PSA levels are elevated, your healthcare provider may recommend a prostate biopsy to determine if you have prostate cancer. PSA Free and Total tests can help determine the likelihood of prostate cancer and may help guide the decision to perform a biopsy.

It’s important to note that PSA testing has some limitations and may not always accurately detect prostate cancer. Additionally, some men with prostate cancer may have normal PSA levels. It’s important to discuss the benefits and limitations of PSA testing with your healthcare provider to determine if testing is appropriate for you.