Gerald P. Murphy, MD

This review of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) by Pannek and Partin, two experts in the prostate marker field, comes at a very good time-a point at which great changes are occurring after a relatively long period of stability. I expect that this trend will continue. Moreover, given the rapid developments occurring in this area, some of the statements made in both the review and my commentary will probably need to be modified within the next 12 months, with further revisions necessary thereafter.

The Society of Surgical Oncology surgical practice guidelines focus on the signs and symptoms of primary cancer, timely evaluation of the symptomatic patient, appropriate preoperative evaluation for extent of disease, and role of the surgeon in