Understanding Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) Testing

Author(s):

Joseph F. Renzulli MD, FACS Mitchell Cornet, MPP, MHSA

Key Takeaways

Prostate cancer screening is essential for early detection, especially in high-risk groups like men over 50, African Americans, and those with a family history.
Routine screening, including PSA tests and digital rectal exams, aids in identifying cancer at an early, treatable stage.
Screening decisions should be personalized, taking into account individual risk factors and overall health.
Symptoms such as urinary issues or family history often lead individuals to seek screening, but routine checks are crucial for asymptomatic individuals.

Panelists discuss how the PSA test is conducted and interpreted, and clarify the definitions of high-risk and advanced prostate cancer types, including their implications for prognosis and subsequent treatment decisions.

EP: 1.When and Why To Get Screened for Prostate Cancer

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EP: 2.Understanding Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) Testing

Video content above is prompted by the following:

What is a PSA test and how is it performed? How do PSA levels guide next steps?
Can you explain what high-risk and advanced prostate cancer are, eg, (non-metastatic castration-sensitive prostate cancer (nmCSPC) with BRC at high risk for metastases, castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC), and metastatic CSPC (mCSPC)? What is the prognosis for patients diagnosed with advanced disease?