PSA with Free PSA ratio Test

The PSA with Free PSA ratio test is a blood test that measures the levels of two types of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) in the blood: total PSA and free PSA. Free PSA is the portion of PSA that is not bound to other proteins in the blood, while total PSA includes both free and bound forms.

The ratio of free PSA to total PSA can provide additional information about the likelihood of prostate cancer.

PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) with Free PSA Ratio test is done for the following reasons:

1. To screen for prostate cancer: The PSA test measures the level of PSA in the blood, which can be elevated in men with prostate cancer. The free PSA ratio test can help differentiate between cancerous and noncancerous conditions.
2. To monitor prostate cancer: After a prostate cancer diagnosis, PSA testing can help monitor the effectiveness of treatment and detect any recurrence.
3. To determine the need for a prostate biopsy: A high PSA level can indicate the need for a prostate biopsy, but the free PSA ratio can help determine the likelihood that the biopsy will detect cancer.
4. To distinguish between benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and prostate cancer: Both BPH and prostate cancer can cause an increase in PSA levels, but the free PSA ratio can help differentiate between the two.
5. To help guide treatment decisions: The free PSA ratio can help determine the best course of treatment for prostate cancer, such as watchful waiting, active surveillance, or immediate treatment.

Certain groups of men may be more likely to benefit from PSA testing:

1. Men over the age of 50: Prostate cancer is more common in men over the age of 50, and screening is generally recommended for this age group.
2. Men with a family history of prostate cancer: Men who have a first-degree relative (father, brother, or son) with prostate cancer are at an increased risk and should discuss screening with their healthcare provider.
3. Men with a history of prostate cancer: Men who have had prostate cancer in the past may need regular PSA tests to monitor for recurrence.
4. Men with symptoms of prostate problems: Men who experience symptoms such as frequent urination, difficulty starting or stopping urination, or blood in the urine or semen may need a PSA test to help diagnose the cause of their symptoms.

Abnormal results of PSA with Free PSA ratio test may indicate the presence of prostate cancer, but they could also be caused by other conditions such as prostatitis, benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), or urinary tract infections.

The test involves drawing a small amount of blood from a vein in your arm. A healthcare professional will clean the area with an antiseptic, wrap an elastic band around your upper arm to make the veins more visible, and insert a needle into a vein to collect the blood sample. You may feel a brief prick or stinging sensation when the needle is inserted, but the procedure is generally painless.

No special preparation is required for the test. However, it is recommended that you consult with your healthcare provider before taking the test, as they may have specific instructions or recommendations based on your individual medical history and current health status.

There are several laboratory tests that may be ordered along with a PSA (prostate-specific antigen) with Free PSA ratio test. These tests may include:

1. Urinalysis: It can detect the presence of blood, protein, and other substances that may indicate kidney or urinary tract problems.
2. Prostate Biopsy: This is a procedure in which a small sample of tissue is taken from the prostate gland and examined under a microscope. It can help diagnose prostate cancer or other conditions.

1. Total PSA
2. Free PSA
3. Total to Free PSA Ratio