Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) Free and Total
Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) is a protein that is in the prostate, which is a small gland in males that encircles the urethra. There are two forms of PSA that exist in the blood: PSA total, which is bound to protein and PSA free, which is not bound to protein. The PSA test may be used a tool to screen for and to monitor prostate cancer. Other reasons for elevated PSA levels could be seen with inflammation of the prostate (prostatitis) and benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). PSA levels tend to increase for all men as they age. PSA testing is also recommended for anyone that has a family history of prostate cancer African-American heritage, or age appropriate screening. PSA is not diagnostic of cancer.