Interpreting Prostate Screening Results

Abnormal results do not necessarily mean you have prostate cancer. Only a biopsy can diagnose prostate cancer. Abnormal screening results can also indicate several other benign (non-cancerous) but treatable conditions and should be addressed in order to improve long-term prostate health.

You will likely be referred to a Urologist if:

• You have an abnormal DRE, regardless of PSA results.
• Your PSA is outside of the age and race adjusted range indicated on the chart below.
• If your average annual PSA value is ≤2.5 ng/mL, and your velocity is >0.35 ng/mL/y.
• If your PSA velocity is >0.75 ng/mL/y.

The following age adjusted chart reflects appropriate PSA readings from the American Urological Association (AUA) Best Practice Policy on PSA Testing.

The information and opinions expressed on this web site are not an endorsement or recommendation for any medical treatment, product, service or course of action by the Prostate Cancer Coalition of North Carolina or its officers and directors. For medical, legal or other advice, please consult appropriate professionals of your choice.