The Hybritech PSA and free-PSA blood tests from Beckman Coulter Inc are used in conjunction with digital rectal exams (DRE) to aid in the detection of prostate cancer in men age 50 years or older; the prognosis and management of prostate cancer patients; and the differentiation between prostate cancer and benign conditions. Available using the company’s immunoassay systems, the tests can be performed in 20 minutes.
     The Hybritech-free PSA test is used as a follow-up test for men with moderately elevated levels of total PSA (between 4 and 10 ng/mL) and negative DREs. Use of the Hybritech-free PSA test can help 20% of men in the diagnostic gray zone avoid unnecessary biopsies, while still detecting 95% of cancers. A prostatic biopsy is required to diagnose cancer.

Beckman Coulter Inc
(800) 526-3821; www.beckmancoulter.com