What is a normal PSA?
At what level should I be concerned with my PSA? I've heard that 4 is the upper limit of what is considered normal, but I'm not sure if that's always the case.
Hi Rick,
Although I'm not a doctor, I can point you to some good information about what exactly a "normal" PSA means. Although 4 used to be viewed as a cut off level for what is considered normal, this isn't a one-size-fits-all answer.
As many as 15% of prostate cancer cases occur in men with a PSA under 4, so it's important to take into account your age, PSA density, percent free PSA, and other factors such as ethnicity and family history of prostate cancer. You can find out more in Dr. Motola's article:
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Hi Rick,
You can read about PSA test numbers, what they mean and how they affect the diagnosis of prostate issues in this section located here. Dr Marc Greenstein wrote an article about PSA Velocity and what it means when PSA numbers rise quickly. You can read that article here. Dr Jay Motola has also written much as Dan told you in a previous answer. You can read about Dr Motola here, and read all of his share posts here.
Remember, online resources are great sources of information to make sure you ask all of the right questions when you see your doctor, but the advice given here should not be used in place of your doctor's advice. Only you and your doctor know your particular situation and together you and your doctor can make the decisions to ensure you the best care possible.
Take care and stay in touch! Let us know how you are doing!
Vicki M
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