The prostate specific antigen: a new marker for diagnosis of prostate-carcinomas

Determination of serum PSA levels in the primary diagnosis and follow-up of patients with prostatic cancer has all the advantages of a prostate-specific marker that are known from PAP assays. But PSA levels have higher amplitudes that those of PAP so that the signalling effect is improved. In addition, information is available earlier than from PAP levels. Elevation of PSA levels in patients with BPH is suggestive of increased risk, but further studies are required for confirmation. As PSA molecules are less sensitive than PAP molecules, handling of serum samples is less problematic so that systematic follow-ups of patients with prostatic cancer can be done on a wider basis. Experience available sofar suggest that PSA and PAP levels should be determined simultaneously in the primary diagnosis and follow-up of patients with prostatic cancer. (Author)