PSA as a screening test for prostate cancer.

With an expected rise in the incidence of prostate cancer, the major challenge of the 1990s is to establish standards and procedures for the screening and early detection of prostate cancer so that mortality is reduced. Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) lacks sufficient sensitivity and specificity to be used alone as a screening test for prostate cancer. However, in conjunction with the digital rectal examination and transrectal ultrasound, PSA can greatly improve detection rates.