What’s covered in a Prostate Profile?
This set of tests measures the levels of two substances in your blood called prostate-specific antigens (PSA). PSA is produced by the prostate gland, which is a small organ in men located below the bladder. This test has commonly been used to help detect prostate cancer.
Please be aware that a PSA test alone cannot definitively diagnose or rule out prostate cancer. If the PSA level is elevated, additional tests with a urologist will be necessary. Conversely, if you have symptoms but your PSA level is low, it is still important to consult a doctor for further evaluation. This test is not recommended for individuals under the age of 16.
Total PSA, Free PSA, and Free: Total Ratio are tests used to assess prostate health and are commonly associated with the detection of prostate cancer.
Here’s what each test means:
Total PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen): This is the overall amount of PSA, a protein produced by the prostate gland, present in the blood. PSA levels are higher in men with prostate problems, including prostate cancer. However, elevated PSA levels can also be caused by benign conditions, such as prostatitis (inflammation of the prostate) or benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH, an enlarged prostate).
Free PSA: PSA exists in two forms in the blood: free PSA (unbound) and complexed PSA (bound to other proteins). Free PSA refers to the portion of PSA that is not attached to other proteins. A lower level of free PSA may be associated with a higher risk of prostate cancer, whereas a higher level may suggest a benign condition.
Free: Total Ratio (Free PSA to Total PSA Ratio): This is the ratio of free PSA to total PSA in the blood. It helps to distinguish between prostate cancer and non-cancerous prostate conditions. In general, a lower ratio (less free PSA compared to total PSA) may indicate a higher risk of prostate cancer, whereas a higher ratio suggests a lower risk of prostate cancer and may be more likely to indicate benign prostate enlargement.
