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Prostate-Specific Antigen Mass Concentration (Serum/Plasma)

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

This test measures the amount of prostate-specific antigen (PSA), a protein produced by the prostate gland, in your blood. PSA levels can help assess prostate health and detect potential issues like benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) or prostate cancer.

Quick summary

["PSA levels may indicate prostate health risks or need for further evaluation."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
109230-3
Short code
PSA Msmt Smn
Synonyms
PSA Msmt Smn
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Ref low
0
Ref high
4
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
84153
SNOMED
39392002
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 healthcare provider may order this test to monitor symptoms of prostate enlargement, screen for prostate cancer, or evaluate changes in prostate health over time. It can also be used to guide treatment decisions if you’ve had a prostate biopsy or other prostate-related procedures.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed, but you may be asked to avoid ejaculation for 2–7 days before testing if your PSA level is elevated. Drink plenty of water on the day of the test to help with blood collection.

How the Test Works

A small blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm. The sample is then analyzed in a lab to measure the exact amount of PSA protein in your blood.

What the Results Mean

Results are reported in nanograms per milliliter (ng/mL). While PSA levels can vary based on age, race, and medical history, they are not the only factor in diagnosing prostate issues. Higher levels may signal concern, but additional tests and evaluations are needed for diagnosis.

Reference range

Normal: <4.0 ng/mLN/A

Specimen: serum

No special preparation required. For PSA, avoid sexual activity for 24-48 hours before the test.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

PSA Mass Concentration

Frequently asked questions

What Does a High PSA Level Indicate?
A high PSA level can suggest conditions like prostate cancer, inflammation (prostatitis), or an enlarged prostate (BPH). However, many men with normal PSA levels have prostate cancer, and some with cancer have normal levels. Your provider will consider your symptoms, medical history, and other test results before making a diagnosis.
What Does a Low PSA Level Indicate?
A low PSA level is less concerning for cancer but may indicate conditions like an underactive prostate, certain medications, or older age. It does not rule out prostate cancer entirely, so further evaluation may still be needed.
How Often Should I Get This Test?
Your doctor will determine how often you need this test based on your age, symptoms, medical history, and risk factors. Regular screening may begin at age 50 for men at average risk or earlier for those with a higher risk (e.g., family history of prostate cancer).
  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