Prostate-Specific Antigen - PSA Levels

A man should discuss elevated PSA test results with his physician. There are many possible reasons for an elevated PSA level, including prostate cancer, benign prostate enlargement, inflammation, infection, age, and race.

If no other symptoms suggest cancer, the physician may recommend repeating DRE and PSA tests regularly to watch for any changes. If a man's PSA levels have been increasing or if a suspicious lump is detected during the DRE, the physician may recommend other tests to determine if there is cancer or another problem in the prostate. A urine test may be used to detect a urinary tract infection or blood in the urine. The physician may recommend imaging tests, such as ultrasound (a test in which high-frequency sound waves are used to obtain images of the kidneys and bladder), x-rays, or cystoscopy (a procedure in which a physician looks into the urethra and bladder through a thin, lighted tube). Medicine or surgery may be recommended if the problem is BPH or an infection.

If cancer is suspected, a biopsy is needed to determine if cancer is present in the prostate. During a biopsy, samples of prostate tissue are removed, usually with a needle, and viewed under a microscope. The physician may use ultrasound to view the prostate during the biopsy, but ultrasound cannot be used alone to tell if cancer is present.

Envisioneering Medical focuses resources and technology to develop equipment to aid physicians in detection, diagnosis and treatment. The TargetScan 3D imaging and targeted biopsy system offers the first real advance in prostate imaging and biopsy in over a decade. It eases any discomfort of probing during examination, as once it is place, there is no need for repositioning. The system allows a physician to generate a true solid 3D image, manipulate it, and precisely plan and undertake a multi-sample biopsy of a targeted tissue mass in the prostate. Click to learn more about TargetScan 3D or ask your physician today.