What is PSA?
PSA is also referred to as Prostate-specific antigen, which is a form of protein, which the cells from prostate gland produce. This protein type is also present in the male serum in smaller quantities for healthy prostrate. However, if the level of the protein is elevated to an abnormal degree, it could indicate the presence of prostate cancer and other related disorders. Hence, to diagnose and administer treatment, a test is necessary to determine the level of protein present in the body.

How is the PSA test performed?

Blood test is basically one of the most effective and common type of tests used to measure the protein amount in the body. Blood is drawn from the vein of the patient, typically from the back of the hand of inside of the elbow.

What are the requirements in preparation for the blood test?

In order to get effectively the accurate result of the PSA test, the patient is ideally not allowed to ejaculate at least 48 hours prior to the test. If this is not followed, it may yield a negative or inaccurate result due to the false rise of the PSA levels. It is also important that the doctor to perform the test knows your medical history especially if there are current medications you are taking. Take note that some drugs could cause the rising or dropping of the prostate-specific antigen level thus they must know to give the right interpretation of the results.

PSA is a natural component in the body, which is produced by the prostate cells. However, when the quantity of this good protein reached its abnormal level, it is a warning sign that must never be ignored. Prostate-specific antigen is undeniably a normal protein but its ability to maintain or break the healthy body system entirely depends on you.