What is prostate specific antigen (PSA)?
Prostate specific antigen (PSA) is a protein produced by the prostate gland that appears in the bloodstream at elevated levels when the gland is enlarged, inflamed, or cancerous.
PSA (prostate specific antigen) is a protein produced by the prostate gland. In healthy men, small amounts circulate in the blood, but elevated PSA levels can signal enlargement, inflammation, or prostate cancer. Because testosterone therapy can stimulate prostate tissue growth, TRT clinics in Miami require baseline PSA testing before starting treatment and regular follow-up tests during therapy.
A baseline PSA measurement establishes a reference point against which future results are compared. This matters because some men experience PSA increases during testosterone replacement, and providers need to distinguish between normal variation and pathological growth. Testing typically happens at initial consultation and at intervals during ongoing treatment, depending on the clinic's protocol and the patient's risk factors.
PSA levels are measured in nanograms per milliliter (ng/mL). Most labs define normal as below 4 ng/mL, though interpretation can vary by age and individual factors. If PSA climbs significantly during TRT, a provider may recommend additional imaging, urological consultation, or dose adjustment. This screening protects patients by catching early warning signs before symptoms develop.