A PSA test should not be the only indicator to follow in prostate cancer detection as a Prostate Specific Antigen Test (PSA test) is not a specific protein test for prostate cancer. It only indicates certain developments in the prostate.
Prostate cancer is only detected in 30% of patients with a PSA score over 4. Sometimes an elevated PSA could be a result of an infection in the prostate gland which could be treated with an antibiotic.
In conjunction with the PSA test, Urologists like Dr. David Samadi will also examine a man’s prostate. Factors such as the size of the prostate gland will be evaluated before a diagnosis is made. Approximately 15% of the time, a doctor will feel a nodule. Typically, a prostate will feel very soft and smooth similar to the palm of someone’s hand. If the prostate feels similar to a knuckle the doctor will know that there is a problem and further test will be performed.
MRI, MRI fusion biopsy urine based PCA3 genetic testing are some available options for patients.