Prostate Cancer Among Men with PSA ≤4.0 ng/mL

In prostate cancer screening, further evaluation frequently is advised when serum prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels exceed 4.0 ng/mL. However, this threshold will miss cancers associated . . .

In prostate cancer screening, further evaluation frequently is advised when serum prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels exceed 4.0 ng/mL. However, this threshold will miss cancers associated with PSA levels lower than 4.0 ng/mL.

To determine the prevalence of prostate cancer in patients with low PSA levels, researchers analyzed data from the placebo group of a previously published prostate cancer prevention trial (Journal Watch Jul 18 2003). After 7 years of observation, 2950 men (age range, 62-91) with normal digital rectal examinations and PSA levels consistently ≤4.0 ng/mL underwent prostate biopsies in which at least six samples were taken. The overall prevalence of prostate cancer among these men was 15%; it ranged from 7% among men wi…

Reviewing Author

Allan S. Brett, MD