PSA Test Under Fire, Again
Since 2009, lack of certainty and confusion has been slowly surrounding the widely used prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test for prostate cancer screening and for follow-up treatment. Back in 2004, studies found that older men with normal PSA levels were found to actually have prostate cancer in about 15% of them. However, false positive and negative results are associated with many of our current medical tests. Men with both high and low levels of PSA can have cancer or not have cancer. In short, no test is perfect. Tests must be interpreted within the context of the entire patient workup (history, symptoms, physical exam and diagnostic tests). Only a biopsy can reveal certainty.
