Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) is a protein produced by cells of the prostate gland. PSA is an enzyme naturally produced by the prostate, but can be elevated in certain diseased states. PSA has been used for the last 30 years as a tool to help evaluate the prostate. The blood level of PSA is often elevated in prostate cancer; however, its role as a screening tool for prostate cancer diagnosis has shifted recently. In addition to prostate cancer, non-cancerous causes of elevated PSA include:

• Prostatitits (Inflammation of the prostate)

• BPH (Enlarged prostate)

Often, an elevated PSA requires further evaluation. Imaging of the prostate along with prostate biopsy are generally used to evaluate for prostate cancer.

In addition to evaluating the cause for your elevated PSA, the physicians at Athens Area Urology will help you understand the evolving role of PSA.