PSA cells are more accurately referred to in the context of cells that produce PSA. Therefore, the question should be rephrased as "What are PSA-producing cells?"
PSA-producing cells are cells that create prostate-specific antigen (PSA).
- Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA): According to research, PSA is a protein produced by both normal and malignant cells of the prostate gland.
Key Aspects of PSA-Producing Cells
Understanding PSA-producing cells requires looking at their role in both healthy and cancerous prostate tissue.
- Normal Prostate Cells: In normal prostate tissue, PSA is produced to help liquefy semen.
- Malignant Prostate Cells: In cancerous tissue, malignant prostate cells produce PSA, often in larger quantities.
The Role of PSA in Prostate Cancer Detection
Because malignant prostate cells can produce elevated levels of PSA, PSA levels are often monitored to screen for and monitor prostate cancer.
- PSA Tests: PSA tests measure the level of PSA in a man's blood.
- Interpretation: Elevated PSA levels can indicate the presence of prostate cancer, though other conditions can also cause PSA levels to rise.
