Name of the Procedure:

Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA); Complexed (Direct Measurement)

Summary

The Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) complexed test is a blood test used to measure the levels of PSA that are bound to other proteins in the blood. PSA is a protein produced by both normal and cancerous prostate cells. This test helps in the evaluation of prostate health, particularly in screening for and monitoring prostate cancer.

Purpose

The PSA complexed test aims to:

• Screen for and detect prostate cancer early.
• Monitor prostate cancer in patients previously diagnosed with the disease.
• Help differentiate between prostate cancer and benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).
• Aid in evaluating the effectiveness of prostate cancer treatments.

Indications

The PSA complexed test may be indicated if the patient:

• Exhibits urinary symptoms such as difficulty urinating, frequent urination, or painful urination.
• Has a family history of prostate cancer or other risk factors.
• Is of an age or demographic group at higher risk of prostate cancer.
• Requires monitoring of known prostate cancer or assessing response to treatment.

Preparation

• No specific preparation is required for the PSA complexed test.
• Patients should inform their healthcare provider about any medications or supplements they are taking.
• It is advisable to avoid ejaculation for 24 hours before the test as it may temporarily raise PSA levels.

Procedure Description

1. A healthcare professional will carry out a routine blood draw from the patient's arm.
2. The blood sample is then sent to a laboratory for analysis.
3. The test measures the levels of PSA that are bound to other proteins in the blood.

Tools and Equipment:

• Needle and syringe or vacuum tube system for blood draw.
• Blood collection tubes.
• Laboratory equipment for PSA measurement.

Anesthesia or Sedation:

• Not applicable, as it is a simple blood draw.

Duration

The blood draw usually takes a few minutes, and results are typically available within a few days to a week.

Setting

The procedure is performed in a medical office, clinic, or laboratory setting.

Personnel

• Phlebotomist or nurse to draw the blood.
• Medical laboratory technologist to analyze the blood sample.
• Healthcare provider to interpret the results.

Risks and Complications

• Minor bruising or discomfort at the puncture site.
• Rare risk of infection.
• Potential for false-positive or false-negative results.

Benefits

• Early detection and timely treatment of prostate cancer.
• Monitoring the effectiveness of treatment.
• Non-invasive and relatively quick procedure.

Recovery

• No specific recovery time is needed.
• Patients can resume normal activities immediately following the blood draw.
• Follow-up appointments may be scheduled to discuss results.

Alternatives

• Total PSA test: Measures both free and complexed PSA but does not differentiate between them.
• Digital Rectal Exam (DRE): Physical examination of the prostate.
• Biopsy: Invasive procedure for definitive diagnosis.

Pros and Cons:

• The PSA complexed test is less invasive compared to a biopsy and provides additional specificity compared to total PSA alone.

Patient Experience

During the blood draw, the patient might feel slight pain or a pinch. After the procedure, there should be minimal discomfort. Over-the-counter pain relievers can be used if necessary, but most patients do not experience significant pain.