Whats the bottom line on using the PSA test for the investigation / diagnosis of prostate cancer?
According to the Ontario Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) Clinical Guidelines, A PSA determination is recommended for any man, with a life expectancy of ten years or more, found to have a prostatic nodule on DRE. A PSA determination is recommended for any man, with a life expectancy of ten years or more, where there is an increased suspicion of prostate cancer. Within the context of a suspicion of prostate cancer is an abnormal-feeling prostate, focal lesion, discrete change either in texture, fullness or symmetry, or secondary carcinoma of unknown origin. The use of a PSA test is also recommended for men with moderate or severe symptoms of prostatism in whom treatment is contemplated. Severe and moderate symptoms are defined according to the International Prostatic Symptom Score (IPSS).
