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PSA
Alternate Names : Prostate-Specific Antigen
DefinitionThis is a test that measures the amount of PSA (prostate-specific antigen) in the blood.
Pictures & Images
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Why is the Test Performed?
This test is performed to detect the presence of PSA.
PSA is a glycoprotein (a protein with a sugar attached) found in prostatic epithelial cells. It can be detected at a low level in the blood of all adult men.
The PSA level is greatly increased in most men with prostatic cancer, but can also be increased somewhat in other disorders of the prostate.
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• Definition
• Why is the Test Performed?
• How is the Test Performed?
• How to Prepare for the Test?
• How will the Test Feel?
• Normal Values
• What do Abnormal Results Mean?
• Special Considerations
• Risks
• Pictures & Images
Topics that might be of interest to you Diseases & Conditions
• Enlarged Prostate
• Prostate Cancer
Tests & Exams
• Blood Pressure
• Venipuncture
Other Topics
• Bleeding
• Fainting
Review Date : 5/6/2002
Reviewed By : David R. Knowles M.D., Department of Urology, New York-Presbyterian Hospital Columbia Campus, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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