A PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) test is a blood test that measures the level of PSA, a protein produced by both normal and malignant cells of the prostate gland in men

. The prostate is a small gland in the male reproductive system located below the bladder, responsible for producing seminal fluid

. The PSA test is primarily used to:

• Screen for prostate cancer in men without symptoms

• Monitor the progression of prostate cancer in diagnosed patients

• Investigate prostate symptoms such as frequent urination, blood in urine or semen, and pelvic or back pain

• Help evaluate the effectiveness of prostate cancer treatment and detect recurrence

High PSA levels in the blood may indicate prostate cancer but can also be caused by other prostate conditions like benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) or prostatitis, as well as recent ejaculation, vigorous exercise, infections, or medical procedures involving the prostate

. Therefore, an elevated PSA level does not definitively diagnose cancer and usually requires further testing

. The PSA test is not universally recommended for routine screening in the general population due to potential risks and benefits; men considering the test are advised to discuss it with their healthcare provider, especially if they have risk factors such as age over 50, family history, or are of African or Caribbean descent

. In summary, the PSA test is a blood test measuring prostate-specific antigen levels to help detect and manage prostate-related conditions, particularly prostate cancer