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Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) Level, 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
15303-1
Short code
Length Prostate US.meas
Synonyms
Length Prostate US.meas
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
us-measured
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 Is This Test Done?

Your doctor may order a PSA test to monitor prostate health, especially if you have symptoms like frequent urination, pain during urination, or an enlarged prostate. It can also be used to screen for prostate cancer, especially in men at higher risk.

What Should You Expect During the Test?

You will typically have a simple blood draw from a vein in your arm. The test is quick and usually done in a clinic or lab. No special preparation is needed, but avoid ejaculation for 2 days before the test if possible.

What Do PSA Levels Mean?

PSA levels alone don’t diagnose prostate cancer, but they can signal potential issues. Higher levels may indicate inflammation, infection, or cancer, while very low levels might suggest benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH). Results should always be interpreted by a healthcare provider.

How Is This Test Performed?

Blood is collected and sent to a lab for analysis. The test measures the total PSA, which includes both free PSA and bound PSA. The method may involve immunoassay techniques to detect the protein.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

PSA Test

Frequently asked questions

What causes PSA levels to change?
PSA levels can increase due to prostate inflammation, infection, an enlarged prostate, or prostate cancer. They may also rise after certain medical procedures, such as a biopsy or digital rectal exam.
How often should PSA testing be done?
The frequency depends on your age, risk factors, and overall health. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends against routine PSA screening for men under 55, but doctors may suggest it for men at higher risk or those with symptoms.
Can lifestyle changes affect PSA levels?
Yes, certain lifestyle factors like diet, exercise, and smoking may influence PSA levels. Avoiding ejaculation for a few days before testing can provide more accurate results, as ejaculation can temporarily raise PSA levels.
  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