Skip to content

Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) with Liquid Chromatography-Tandem Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) Quantification

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 17, 2026

This test measures the level of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) in your blood using advanced technology to detect it precisely.

Quick summary

["PSA levels help assess prostate health, especially in screening for or monitoring prostate cancer."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 17, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
19164-3
Short code
CA724-PL
Synonyms
Cancer Ag72-4 Plr-aCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
fluid
Container
Sterile, leak-proof container without additives (plain red-top tube or sterile specimen container); avoid heparin or other anticoagulants that may interfere with immunoassay
Units
N/A
Ref low
72
Ref high
4
Critical range
0.5 N/A – —
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
Immunoassay (Electrochemiluminescence Immunoassay - ECLIA or Chemiluminescent Immunoassay - CLIA)
CPT
86316
SNOMED
395125007
Specimen volume
2-5 mL of pleural fluid; minimum 1 mL required for analysis
Stability
Stable for 24 hours at room temperature (20-25°C); 7 days at 2-8°C; 3 months at -20°C or below. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles.
Hemolysis max
300
TAT
24–72 hours
Order
routine

Why This Test Might Be Ordered

Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like urinary issues, pain in the pelvic area, or if you’re at higher risk for prostate problems. It’s also used during routine check-ups for men over 40 or those with a family history of prostate cancer.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed, but avoid ejaculation for 2–3 days before the test if possible. Drink plenty of water the day before to help with blood flow. Tell your doctor about any medications you’re taking, as some may affect PSA levels.

What the Test Involves

A blood sample will be drawn from a vein in your arm by a healthcare professional. The sample is then sent to a lab for analysis using specialized equipment to measure PSA accurately.

What the Results Mean

PSA levels alone don’t diagnose prostate cancer—they’re part of a broader evaluation. Higher-than-normal levels may signal potential issues, but other factors (like inflammation, infections, or benign prostate growth) can also affect them. Your doctor will discuss results in the context of your health history and symptoms.

Reference range

No established reference range for pleural fluid. CA 72-4 is typically not detectable or present at very low concentrations in benign pleural effusions. Values are interpreted in conjunction with serum levels and clinical findings. Generally, pleural fluid CA 72-4 levels above 10 U/mL are suggestive of malignant effusion, particularly when associated with elevated serum levels.N/A

Specimen: fluid

No special patient preparation required. Thoracentesis is performed by qualified healthcare provider under sterile conditions. Patient consent and standard procedural preparation are required.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

PSA LC-MS/MS

Frequently asked questions

How often will I need this test?
The frequency depends on your health status, risk factors, and doctor’s recommendations. Some men get PSA tests every few years, while others may need them more often if they have a history of prostate issues or are at higher risk.
Can PSA levels change with diet or exercise?
Diet and exercise can influence PSA levels indirectly—for example, certain foods or supplements might affect prostate health, but they don’t directly alter PSA measurements. Always follow your doctor’s advice on lifestyle factors.
What if my PSA level is elevated?
An elevated PSA doesn’t always mean cancer. Your doctor may order additional tests, like a digital rectal exam or imaging studies, to investigate further. They’ll guide you on next steps based on your results and symptoms.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy