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Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) Total

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures the total amount of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) in your blood. PSA is a protein produced by both healthy and cancerous prostate cells.

Quick summary

["PSA levels help doctors assess prostate health, including the risk of prostate cancer."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
36057-8
Short code
CT Prostate
Synonyms
CT Prostate
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
ct
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why This Test Might Be Ordered

Your doctor may recommend this test if you have symptoms like frequent urination, difficulty urinating, or pain in the pelvic area. It may also be used during routine check-ups, especially for men over 40, or as part of a screening for prostate cancer.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed for this blood test. You can eat and drink normally the day before. If you’re scheduled for a prostate exam (like a digital rectal exam), discuss it with your doctor beforehand.

What the Test Results Mean

PSA levels vary by age, health, and other factors. Higher-than-normal levels can suggest prostate issues, including inflammation, infection, or cancer. However, a single test result alone doesn’t diagnose prostate cancer.

Common Causes of Elevated PSA Levels

Elevated PSA can occur due to benign conditions like benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), infections, or trauma to the prostate. It may also be linked to prostate cancer, but other factors must be considered.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

PSA Total

Frequently asked questions

What does a PSA test help doctors identify?
A PSA test helps monitor prostate health, especially in men at higher risk for prostate cancer. It may also guide decisions about further testing, such as imaging or a biopsy, if needed.
How often should I get a PSA test?
The frequency depends on your age, family history, and overall health. Discuss with your doctor whether a PSA test is right for you—some men may start screening at age 50 or earlier if they have risk factors.
Can lifestyle changes affect PSA levels?
Yes, certain activities like exercise, diet, or medications (e.g., finasteride) may influence PSA levels. Always report any recent changes or medications to your doctor before testing.
  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 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy