Free Module 5 · Prostate and urinary symptoms

PSA: when to order it and how to interpret it

Author and medical review: Dr. Leonardo Romeo, urologist (physician) · Last updated:

1

Introduction

What this lesson is about PSA does not diagnose BPH. Its usefulness in a patient with LUTS depends on whether knowing the result can change clinical management.
2

Video lesson

▶
Video pending upload (embedded YouTube)
3

Summary

It may be ordered when:

  • A diagnosis of prostate cancer would change management.
  • The PSA value will contribute to a therapeutic decision.
  • The result will help estimate the risk of progression.
  • After discussing the implications of the test with the patient.

PSA and prostate volume

There is a relationship between PSA and prostate volume, so PSA can also provide information about the risk of progression.

PSA and 5-ARI treatment

⚠️ Watch the interpretation

Finasteride and dutasteride progressively lower PSA by approximately 50% after 6 to 12 months of treatment. PSA must be interpreted taking this effect into account.

Key concept

Do not order PSA automatically just because the patient has urinary symptoms. First ask yourself whether the result would change management.

4

PDF

Content pending upload There is no downloadable PDF for this lesson yet.
5

Practical algorithm

Content pending upload There is no visual algorithm uploaded for this lesson yet.
6

Clinical case

Content pending upload Progressive presentation of the case — the student makes decisions as it unfolds.
7

Self-assessment

Questions pending upload 5–10 multiple-choice questions on this lesson.
8

References

Content pending upload The specific references for this lesson will be added.

Want us to let you know when this lesson is complete?

All set, we'll let you know! 🎉
← Back to program Next lesson: Medical treatment of BPH →

Related lessons

More lessons in Module 5 · Prostate and urinary symptoms

Clinical cases from the module

Keep going