Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) Immunoassay (Quantitative)
This test measures the level of prostate-specific antigen, a protein produced by the prostate gland, often checked to monitor prostate health or screen for prostate cancer.
["PSA levels help assess prostate health and guide decisions about further testing or treatment."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 87989-0
- Short code
- T gondii DNA Mar Ql NAA+probe
- Synonyms
- T gondii DNA Mar Ql NAA+probe
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- probe-amp-tar
- 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 a PSA test to: screen for early signs of prostate cancer, especially in men at higher risk; monitor progression of prostate cancer if already diagnosed; evaluate symptoms like urinary issues that might suggest prostate problems; or check for prostate inflammation or infection.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed, but you may be asked to avoid ejaculation for 2–4 days before testing to get a more accurate result. If you have recent prostate procedures, your doctor may advise waiting.
During the Test
A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. You may feel a brief pinch, but it’s quick and not painful. The sample is sent to a lab for analysis using an immunoassay method to detect PSA.
What the Results Mean
Results are not interpreted alone—they’re compared to your age, overall health, and symptoms. Higher-than-normal levels can signal prostate issues, but they don’t always mean cancer. Your doctor will discuss findings with you.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance
Short name
PSA Level
Frequently asked questions
PSA levels can rise due to benign prostate conditions (like enlargement or inflammation), but they’re also a key indicator of prostate cancer. Regular monitoring helps detect changes early, improving treatment options.
Can diet or medications affect PSA levels? Certain foods (like tomatoes or lycopene-rich foods) or medications (e.g., finasteride) may influence PSA. Always discuss your medications and diet with your doctor before testing.
Is there any risk or discomfort with this test? The blood draw is minor and temporary discomfort is common. Rarely, there may be bruising or slight pain at the site.
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.
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Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy