Detection of prostate cancer by prostate-specific antigen.

The use of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) for early detection of prostate cancer has dramatically increased the reported incidence of this malignancy but its net benefit is unclear and remains controversial at present. Although several countries have adopted prostate cancer screening as a health policy, a reduction of cancer mortality would be an ultimate indication of the effectiveness of early detection. Since screening upon patient request cannot be refused, appropriate information should be provided until further support is available.