PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) Test
A blood test that measures prostate-specific antigen (PSA), a protein made by the prostate gland.
PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) Test
A blood test that measures prostate-specific antigen (PSA), a protein made by the prostate gland.
Also known as
- PSA
What it measures
- PSA level in the blood
Why a doctor may order it
It can be used to screen for prostate cancer, and it may also be ordered if you have symptoms of a prostate condition. Screening with a PSA test is a personal choice with possible harms: it cannot tell cancer from non-cancerous conditions, and many prostate cancers grow so slowly they never cause problems.
What it helps evaluate
A higher PSA can be caused by prostate cancer or by conditions that are not cancer, such as an infection or an enlarged prostate, and a normal PSA does not completely rule out cancer. A high result usually leads to more tests, not a diagnosis.
Preparation
Avoid sex and masturbation for 24 hours before the test, because releasing semen can raise PSA and make the result less accurate. Certain medicines can also affect the result — tell your provider about everything you take.
Fasting
No fasting is needed.
Important considerations
- Whether to have PSA screening is a decision to make with your doctor, taking into account your age, family history and other risk factors.
- PSA levels can go up and down, so a doctor may repeat the test.
Discuss results with your doctor
Talk to a doctor about whether PSA screening is right for you, and about any urinary or prostate symptoms.