What PSA level typically suggests a possibility of prostate cancer?

A prostate-specific antigen (PSA) level greater than 4 ng/mL is considered the threshold that raises suspicion for prostate cancer in adult men. While it's essential to understand that PSA levels can fluctuate and that other factors can cause elevations—such as benign prostatic hypertrophy or prostatitis—levels exceeding 4 ng/mL often prompt further investigation. In clinical practice, a PSA level above this cutoff is frequently used as a guideline to perform additional tests, such as a biopsy, to confirm the presence of cancer.

Levels below this threshold may not indicate an immediate concern for prostate cancer, and while individual risk factors and patient history are extremely relevant, the 4 ng/mL benchmark helps guide further medical decision-making. Thus, recognizing the significance of PSA levels in prostate cancer diagnosis is crucial for appropriate patient management.