PSA

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Normal Values

Normal values depend on age. Older men may have slightly higher PSA measurements than younger men. African Americans normally have slightly higher values than white men.

In most laboratories, a value of less than 4 ng/ml is normal. A value between 4 and 10 is borderline, and over 10 is high. Results that are high do not mean that a person has cancer -- other conditions can cause high values. If someone has a high value, further evaluation is neccessary.

Finally, keep in mind that while the PSA test is an important tool for detecting prostate cancer, it is not foolproof. A PSA test does not always detect the presence of cancer. Therefore, a digital rectal exam should also be performed to check for prostate cancer.

Note: ng/ml = nanograms per milliliter