• Prostate cancer is the most diagnosed tumor in men. It represents approximately 15% of all diagnosed tumors.

There are different diagnostic methods to prevent and diagnose prostate cancer early, one of them is the prostate specific antigen test, commonly known as PSA.

But what exactly does the PSA blood test measure?

Prostate Specific Antigen or PSA is a protein produced by the prostate that is found mainly in semen and in small amounts in the blood. The PSA blood test analyzes the blood levels of this protein, allowing the diagnosis and monitoring of prostate cancer.

Are high blood PSA levels always indicative of prostate cancer?

If the results of the analysis show elevated blood levels of PSA, it may be prostate cancer, however, this is not always the case. These may be elevated due to benign (non-cancerous) processes, such as prostatitis (inflammation or infection of the prostate), benign prostatic hyperplasia (normal enlargement with age), or due to a urinary tract infection.

When this occurs, urologists generally recommend additional tests, such as a prostate biopsy, to confirm the diagnosis of prostate cancer.

When is a PSA test recommended?

The recommendation to perform a PSA test varies according to the risk factors, age and family and personal history of each person and, generally, urologists indicate it mainly during urological check-ups. But in general terms we can say that:

• From the age of 50. Although if you are at higher risk due to a family history of prostate cancer, father or brother with prostate cancer, it is advisable to start the tests from the age of 40-45.
• If you experience urinary symptoms such as difficulty urinating, frequent urination, blood in the urine or pain in the pelvic region, etc.

When we detect a high PSA in the blood we should not be alarmed, the first thing the urologist will do is repeat the PSA analysis to confirm it. If so, he or she will usually request an MRI to look for prostate lesions in a very specific way. If the suspicion is confirmed, he would proceed to perform a biopsy.

At CreuBlanca, we offer one of the most advanced and sensitive tests to determine the risk of suffering from prostate cancer based on the determination of the Prostatic Health Index. In addition, we have a team of highly specialized urologists who will evaluate your case in a personalized way to obtain an accurate diagnosis and apply an appropriate treatment.