What does the abbreviation "PSA" stand for in medical tests?

The abbreviation "PSA" stands for Prostate-specific antigen, which is a protein produced by both normal and malignant cells of the prostate gland. The measurement of PSA levels in the blood is widely used as a screening tool for prostate cancer and to monitor treatment effectiveness and disease recurrence. Elevated levels of PSA can indicate various conditions, including prostate cancer, benign prostatic hyperplasia, and prostatitis. The use of PSA testing is a critical component of prostate health assessments, especially for men who are at increased risk for prostate conditions.

Understanding what PSA represents is key for healthcare professionals as it informs decisions regarding patient management, potential biopsies, and further investigations. Other options, while related to medical assessments in some capacity, do not represent the common or recognized usage of the abbreviation in the context of medical testing related to prostate health.