Testicular-specific antigen (TSA) in serum/plasma
This test measures a protein produced mainly by testicular tissue, which can help assess conditions affecting the testes or related reproductive health.
["A TSA test may be used to monitor conditions like testicular cancer or evaluate fertility issues."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 35092-6
- Short code
- Testicular US Pnl
- Synonyms
- Testicular US Pnl
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- 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
When Might You Need This Test?
Your healthcare provider might order a TSA test if you have symptoms like pain or swelling in the testicles, a history of testicular cancer, or if fertility issues are suspected. It may also be part of follow-up testing for known reproductive disorders.
What Does the Test Measure?
TSA is a protein found in high levels in normal testicular tissue. Elevated levels may indicate conditions such as testicular cancer, inflammation, or other reproductive system abnormalities. Levels may also be measured in other contexts if reproductive health is being evaluated.
Sample Collection and Preparation
A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The blood is then processed to separate serum or plasma for testing. This process is quick and typically done in a lab setting.
What Are Common Uses?
TSA testing is primarily used in the diagnosis and monitoring of testicular cancer, though it can also play a role in other reproductive health evaluations, such as assessing fertility or identifying conditions affecting the testes.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance: Elevated TSA levels can signal potential issues like testicular cancer, especially when combined with other diagnostic findings. However, TSA alone is not typically used as a standalone diagnostic test due to its specificity. Monitoring TSA levels over time may help track the progression or response to treatment in certain cases.
Short name
TSA (Serum)
Frequently asked questions
Why might my doctor recommend a TSA test?
What does a high or low TSA level mean?
How often will I need this test?
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