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Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) Mass Concentration in Serum/Plasma

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

This test measures the amount of prostate-specific antigen (PSA), a protein produced by both healthy and diseased prostate tissue. It’s often used to screen for or monitor prostate cancer and other prostate conditions.

Quick summary

["PSA tests help doctors assess prostate health and guide decisions about further testing or treatment."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
111896-7
Short code
Max diameter PD Endscpy
Synonyms
Max diameter PD Endscpy
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
endoscopy
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 Matters

PSA is a key marker in prostate health because it can rise when the prostate is inflamed, infected, enlarged, or cancerous. However, elevated PSA doesn’t always mean cancer—other conditions can also affect levels. This test helps doctors evaluate symptoms like urinary changes or persistent discomfort.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed, but you may be asked to avoid certain medications (like finasteride or dutasteride) that can lower PSA levels before testing. Your doctor will provide specific instructions if recommended.

What the Results Mean

Results are interpreted based on your age, overall health, and symptoms. A higher-than-normal PSA may prompt further testing, such as a biopsy or imaging scans, to investigate potential causes like prostate cancer, benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), or infection.

Common Reasons for Testing

Doctors order PSA tests to: screen for prostate cancer in men at higher risk, monitor prostate cancer progression or treatment response, check for signs of prostate inflammation or infection, or evaluate symptoms like frequent urination or pain in the pelvic area.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

PSA Level

Frequently asked questions

What does a high PSA level mean?
A high PSA level can signal prostate issues, but it’s not definitive proof of cancer. Other factors, like age, race, or recent ejaculation, can influence PSA levels. Always discuss results with your doctor, as they’ll consider your full medical history and symptoms to guide next steps.
What if my PSA level is normal but I have prostate symptoms?
Normal PSA results don’t rule out prostate cancer or other conditions. If you have symptoms like urinary changes or pain, your doctor may recommend additional tests, such as a digital rectal exam or imaging studies, to investigate further.
Can diet or medications affect PSA levels?
Certain medications (like finasteride or dutasteride) can lower PSA levels, while others (like aspirin or NSAIDs) may not have a direct impact. Foods high in lycopene (like tomatoes) or cruciferous vegetables (like broccoli) might influence PSA levels, but the effect is usually small. Always follow your doctor’s advice on medication use 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