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Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) Mass Concentration in Serum

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

This test measures the amount of prostate-specific antigen (PSA), a protein produced by both healthy and cancerous prostate cells. PSA levels can help assess prostate health, detect early signs of prostate cancer, or monitor treatment progress.

Quick summary

["PSA testing helps guide discussions about prostate health and potential next steps in care."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
4672-2
Short code
Prot C Ag PPP-mCnc
Synonyms
Prot C Ag PPP-mCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
plasma
Container
Lavender-top (EDTA) or Green-top (Heparin)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
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 this test to evaluate symptoms like urinary issues, check for prostate cancer risk, monitor prostate health during treatment, or screen for conditions like benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). It’s also used in follow-up care for prostate cancer patients.

What Does a High PSA Level Mean?

Elevated PSA levels can indicate conditions such as prostate inflammation, infection, benign growths, or prostate cancer. However, other factors like age, race, or recent ejaculation can also affect PSA levels, so results should be interpreted with clinical context.

What Does a Low PSA Level Mean?

Low PSA levels are less commonly associated with prostate issues but may occur in younger men, men with certain medical conditions, or those who have had prostate surgery or radiation therapy. A low PSA alone doesn’t rule out prostate problems.

How Is This Test Performed?

A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The blood is then sent to a lab where it’s analyzed to measure PSA concentration using a sensitive detection method.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

PSA Mass Concentration

Frequently asked questions

What Are Common Causes of Abnormal PSA Levels?
Abnormal PSA levels can result from prostate cancer, prostatitis (inflammation), benign prostatic hyperplasia (enlarged prostate), urinary tract infections, or recent ejaculation. Other conditions like diabetes or heart disease may also influence PSA levels.
How Often Should PSA Testing Be Done?
The frequency of PSA testing depends on your age, overall health, symptoms, and risk factors. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends discussing testing with your doctor, especially if you’re at higher risk for prostate cancer.
Can Diet or Exercise Affect PSA Levels?
Dietary factors like cruciferous vegetables (e.g., broccoli) or supplements may have mild effects, but exercise generally does not significantly alter PSA levels. Recent ejaculation can temporarily spike PSA, so timing of testing matters.
  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