What is the primary use of PSA testing?

The primary use of PSA (prostate-specific antigen) testing is to screen for prostate cancer. PSA is a protein produced by both normal and malignant cells of the prostate gland, and measuring its levels in the blood can help identify individuals who may have prostate cancer. Elevated PSA levels can indicate the presence of cancer, although they can also be influenced by other prostate conditions, such as benign prostatic hypertrophy or prostatitis. This screening allows for early detection, which can be critical for successful treatment outcomes.

While PSA testing can provide insights into benign prostate conditions and its levels can be affected by factors unrelated to cancer, its main role in clinical practice is aimed at identifying potential cases of prostate cancer, thus facilitating timely intervention.