Home PSA test

My father who is 82 is concerned about his prostate. He has had a rectal exam from a doctor recently but his mind won’t rest. He was hoping to attend a testing that had been set up locally but they are fully booked. I’m hoping to get him a home test can you recommend one as I’m worried about getting a counterfeit one.

  • Hi Siantalsarn, and welcome, I'm pretty sure no medical professional would recommend a PSA home test kit, but I'm surprised as your dad is so concerned and worried, your GP won't book him in for a blood test, I would be telling his doctor the emotional strain it is causing him, and if your dad has any familial link to prostate cancer, mention that too.

    Eddie

  • Hello and thank you for your post,

    We cannot recommend a home test.

    I wondered if your father is having any symptoms that are causing him concern.

    It is good that he has had a rectal exam as that can give the doctor an idea of what the prostate feels like. For example, whether it is enlarged and if it is smooth, all of which suggest to the doctor whether further tests might be needed. Alongside this, your father can request to have a PSA blood test. The PSA is a protein found in the prostate, which, if raised, could mean there is a cancer. However, it can be raised for reasons other than cancer.

    I wondered if this is the testing that has been set up locally.

    If both the rectal examination and a PSA have been done and are within normal limits, then it is unlikely the doctor needs to refer him to the hospital for further tests such as an MRI scan.

    As Eddie has posted, the best person for your father to discuss his concerns with would be his GP as they know his situation they may be able to offer him further reassurance.

    I hope this helps, please feel free to come back to us with any questions.

    Take care,

    Jemma