PSA

Also known as: Prostate Specific Antigen, Total PSA

Men's Health Blood
Patient Friendly Summary

PSA is a smoke alarm for the prostate — sensitive but not specific. Most raised PSAs are benign enlargement or infection. Urologists use repeat tests, ratios, and MRI before considering biopsy.

What this test means

PSA is a protein made by the prostate gland. Levels rise with age, benign prostate enlargement, infection — and sometimes prostate cancer, which is why it is used for screening.

Why it is done

It is done for urinary symptoms in older men, prostate screening discussions after age 50 (earlier with family history), and monitoring known prostate conditions.

Understanding your value

If your value is high

A raised PSA may suggest benign enlargement, prostate infection, recent procedures — or sometimes cancer. It prompts urology review, not panic.

If your value is low

Low values are generally reassuring for the screening purpose.

About the normal range

Cut-offs are age-adjusted (often quoted around 4 ng/mL). Recent cycling, ejaculation, or prostate examination can temporarily raise PSA.

When to consult a doctor

Discuss any raised PSA with a urologist, and review urinary symptoms — weak stream, night-time frequency — even if PSA is normal.

Frequently Asked Questions

It is done for urinary symptoms in older men, prostate screening discussions after age 50 (earlier with family history), and monitoring known prostate conditions. Your doctor will decide if this test is right for your situation.

A raised PSA may suggest benign enlargement, prostate infection, recent procedures — or sometimes cancer. It prompts urology review, not panic. This needs clinical correlation — always discuss your report with your doctor.

Low values are generally reassuring for the screening purpose. This needs clinical correlation — always discuss your report with your doctor.

A single value rarely tells the whole story. Results need to be read together with your symptoms, history, and other tests. Please consult your doctor for a proper interpretation.

Quick Facts

  • TestPSA
  • Short formsProstate Specific Antigen, Total PSA
  • Sample typeBlood
  • CategoryMen's Health

Related Terms

Benign Malignant Borderline High

Specialists

Urology & Andrology Oncology

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Disclaimer: This information is for patient education only and does not replace medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified doctor.