Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) with Free PSA Fraction
This test measures the proportion of free PSA (a non-specific marker) in your blood to help assess prostate health and potential concerns like benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) or early prostate cancer.
["Understanding your free PSA ratio can help guide discussions about prostate health and next steps in diagnosis or monitoring."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 111517-9
- Short code
- p-tau217/AL beta42 SerPl-Rto
- Synonyms
- p-tau217/AL beta42 SerPl-Rto
- Category
- coagulation
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 0.8
- Ref high
- 1.2
- Critical range
- — – 5 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 85610
- SNOMED
- 396252006
- 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 Is Done
Doctors may order this test if you have symptoms like frequent urination, difficulty urinating, or if you’re at higher risk for prostate issues. It can also be used after a PSA blood test to provide more detailed information about prostate health.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You’ll have a simple blood draw, typically done in a clinic or lab. Avoid ejaculation for 2–3 days before the test if instructed by your provider.
What the Results Mean
The test compares total PSA to free PSA. A higher free PSA fraction (typically >25%) often suggests less concern for cancer, while lower ratios may warrant further evaluation. Your results will be discussed with your healthcare provider.
Common Reasons for Abnormal Results
Elevated or low free PSA ratios can indicate conditions like prostate inflammation, BPH, or early cancer. However, results alone don’t diagnose a condition—they guide further testing or follow-up.
Reference range
INR: 0.8-1.2 (warfarin: 2.0-3.0)N/A
Inform your healthcare provider if you are taking blood thinners. No special preparation required.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
This test helps differentiate between benign prostate conditions and early prostate cancer by providing a ratio that reflects the proportion of PSA bound to proteins (inactive) versus free PSA (active). It supports more precise risk assessment and treatment planning.
Short name
PSA Free Fraction Test
Frequently asked questions
Will this test show if I have prostate cancer?
Can I eat or drink anything before this test?
How long will I wait for my results?
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