The normal range for a PSA test is a value less than 4 mcg/L. Approximately 22% of men with elevated values in the range of 4-9.9 mcg/L may have prostatic carcinoma and when the level exceeds 10 mcg/L the percentage climbs to about 65%.

However this test can be elevated by other benign conditions such as prostatic hyperplasia and inflamation. Approximately one quarter of men with benign prostatic hyperplasia may have elevated levels of PSA. Urinary retention, infection, and procedures such as a biopsy can also cause the PSA value to be elevated. The PSA test results must be evaluated by your physician along with the findings of the physical exam and other studies he/she may perform to make a determination of what the PSA value truely means.

It is also possible for the PSA value to be normal where there is prostatic carcinoma. It is for this reason that the screening test cannot replace, but should be used in conjunction with, an annual rectal examination. As in most cancers, catching the tumor early before it has a chance to spread gives the best chance for fighting the disease.