PSA test for the prostate
Blodprov: PSA - engelskaThe PSA test is a blood test that can show whether there are any changes in your prostate. Some changes are harmless, while others could lead to prostate cancer. A doctor can use a PSA test to find out whether you need additional examinations or treatments.
Why should I do a PSA test?
The prostate is located inside the body, above the penis. You can do a blood test called a PSA test if the doctor thinks there might be a change in your prostate.
If something in your prostate has changed, you may notice that you need to pee more often or that you pee with a weak stream. Seek medical care if this happens to you.
What can the PSA test show?
The prostate produces a protein called PSA, prostate-specific antigen. The test shows how much PSA is found in your blood. A lot of PSA in your blood could indicate that something in your prostate has changed.
You may have to undergo several examinations in order to receive the right treatment.
What can cause it?
It is common for something in the prostate to change in men over 50. It is usually not a reason to worry. But, a change could also be caused by inflammation, which is a kind of swelling, or even cancer.
Prostate cancer is the most common type of cancer in men. The risk of prostate cancer increases with age.
Some types of prostate cancer develop very slowly, without you even noticing. Other types of prostate cancer develop quickly. In such cases, you need to start treatment as soon as possible. There is a greater chance of recovery if the cancer is detected early.
You can bring a friend along or get the help of an interpreter
It is important that you understand what the staff tell you. If you do not speak Swedish, you may be entitled to an interpreter, which is a person who translates from your language into Swedish, and vice versa. The interpreter also has a duty to maintain patient confidentiality. If you would like an interpreter, please contact the clinic before your appointment.
You can bring a friend or family member along if you want. A friend or family member who translates for you is not an interpreter, and therefore does not have a duty to maintain patient confidentiality.
How the sample is taken
The sample for the PSA test is taken at a healthcare centre or a hospital. A nursing assistant will take the blood sample from your arm using a thin needle. Some people find this painful or uncomfortable, but it will be over quickly.
When will I get the test results?
You will get the results in a few weeks. You will get a letter or be contacted by phone. The letter will be sent to your official address of record. You will be asked to come in for a new examination if the test showed that something has changed.
Would you like to do a PSA test?
You can contact a healthcare centre if you would like to have a PSA test.
Feel free to call the 1177 hotline if you have any questions or need some advice by phone. The hotline is staffed by nurses. They can let you know whether you should seek medical care.
You can speak Swedish or English. The 1177 hotline is free of charge.