Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) by Mass Concentration
This test measures the amount of prostate-specific antigen (PSA), a protein produced by both healthy and diseased prostate tissue, in your blood.
["PSA levels help assess prostate health and guide decisions about further evaluation."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 59223-8
- Short code
- PSA Prt-mCnc
- Synonyms
- PSA Prt-mCnc
- 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?
Doctors may order a PSA test to check for prostate cancer, monitor treatment progress, or evaluate symptoms like urinary issues. It can also help screen for prostate enlargement or inflammation.
What Does a PSA Test Measure?
PSA is released into the bloodstream by the prostate gland. Higher levels may suggest prostate cancer, benign prostate conditions, or other health factors. Results alone don’t diagnose cancer but can signal the need for additional tests.
Sample Collection and Preparation
A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The sample is sent to a lab for analysis using advanced techniques to measure PSA concentration accurately.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed, but inform your doctor about recent prostate exams, medications (especially blood thinners), or recent ejaculation, as these can temporarily affect PSA levels.
Reference range
Normal: <4.0 ng/mLN/A
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.
Elevated PSA levels can indicate prostate cancer, but they can also rise due to benign conditions like benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) or prostatitis. PSA velocity (rate of change) and total PSA (including free and bound forms) are often considered alongside results for better interpretation. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized results.
Short name
PSA Blood Test
Frequently asked questions
What Are Normal PSA Levels?
Does PSA Test Detect All Types of Prostate Cancer?
Can PSA Levels Change Due to Medications?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
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.
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