The test itself checks for levels of the antigen in the blood stream in a higher than normal amount. They can also mean an enlargement or an inflammation of the prostate. The American Cancer Society recommends that all men have the test annually after the age of 50. Men who have a family history of the disease or are of African American decent should begin testing at 40. If your doctor suspects cancer from either of these tests, orders may be given for an ultrasound, CT Scan, MRI or even a biopsy.
Prostate cancer can be an insidious disease.
Many times the disease doesn t show any symptoms in its early stages. In fact, forty percent or more of the cases of prostate cancers aren t discovered until after they have metastasized beyond the prostate gland. An increased need to urinate more frequently. Difficulty during the initiation of urination. Urine flow is weak or just dribbles.