Final answer:
The abbreviation that refers to a tumor marker for prostatic disorders is d. PSA, which stands for prostate-specific antigen. Elevated PSA levels may indicate prostate cancer, but a definitive diagnosis requires a biopsy. Screening with PSA is controversial due to potential overtreatment.
Step-by-step explanation:
The abbreviation that refers to a tumor marker for prostatic disorders is d. PSA, which stands for prostate-specific antigen. PSA is a protein produced by both normal and malignant cells of the prostate gland and is measured in the blood. Elevated levels of PSA can suggest the presence of prostate cancer, but higher-than-normal levels can also be caused by other conditions such as prostatitis or benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). A biopsy is the definitive test for diagnosing prostate cancer, and it is typically performed when there is suspicion of cancer, such as an abnormal lump found during a physical exam or an elevated PSA level. However, screening for prostate cancer with PSA tests is debated, as it may not reduce the risk of death from prostate cancer and can lead to unnecessary treatment and associated side effects.