Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) density is a measurement derived from dividing the total PSA value by the volume of the prostate gland. For example, if an individual’s total PSA is 5 ng/mL and their prostate volume, as determined by imaging, is 50 mL, the resulting figure is 0.1 ng/mL/mL. This figure provides additional information beyond the total PSA value alone.
The rationale for calculating this metric lies in its ability to refine risk assessment for prostate cancer. A higher concentration within a smaller prostate volume might raise suspicion more than the same concentration in a larger gland. Historically, it emerged as a refinement to total PSA screening, aiming to improve specificity and reduce unnecessary biopsies.