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Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) with Magnetic Bead Immunoassay (Prostate-Specific Antigen, 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 helps assess prostate health and may aid in early detection of prostate issues."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
75677-5
Short code
Deprecated Proteus sp atpD Bld Pos Ql Prb Mag
Synonyms
Deprecated Proteus sp atpD Bld Pos Ql Prb Mag
Category
chemistry
Sample
whole-blood
Container
Lavender-top (EDTA)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
probe-mag-capture
Specimen volume
3 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h
Hemolysis max
0
Lipemia max
0
Icterus max
0
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why Is This Test Done?

Your doctor may order this test to monitor symptoms of an enlarged prostate (benign prostatic hyperplasia), check for prostate cancer, or evaluate prostate health after treatment. It can also be used during routine check-ups for men at higher risk of prostate problems.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You may have a small needle inserted into a vein in your arm to draw blood. If you’re scheduled for a PSA test related to prostate cancer screening, your doctor may advise avoiding ejaculation for 2–3 days before the test.

What Happens During the Test?

A healthcare professional will collect a blood sample from a vein in your arm. The blood is then processed to measure PSA levels using a sensitive immunoassay method that detects both free and bound PSA.

What Are the Results Typically Used For?

Results help determine if PSA levels are within normal ranges or if they suggest potential issues like inflammation, infection, or cancer. Elevated levels may prompt further testing, such as a digital rectal exam or biopsy.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance: PSA Levels and Prostate Health

Short name

Total PSA

Frequently asked questions

What does a high PSA level mean?
A high PSA level can indicate several conditions, including prostate inflammation (prostatitis), infection, benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), or prostate cancer. However, PSA alone is not a definitive test for cancer; it’s often used alongside other tests for diagnosis.
What does a low PSA level mean?
A low PSA level usually suggests a healthy prostate, but it can also occur in older men or those with certain medical conditions. It does not definitively rule out prostate cancer.
Can PSA levels change over time?
Yes, PSA levels can fluctuate due to factors like age, recent ejaculation, prostate surgery, or certain medications. Your doctor will consider these factors when interpreting your results.
  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