Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA)
Cancer Screening · Blood
Available in:Hisar
Available at 1 lab
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₹650₹549
About this test
What is PSA?
Prostate‑Specific Antigen (PSA) is a protein produced by cells of the prostate gland. A blood test measures the amount of PSA circulating in the bloodstream.
Key Parameters
| Parameter | What it shows |
|---|---|
| Total PSA | Overall PSA level |
| Free PSA | PSA not bound to proteins (useful in certain age groups) |
| % Free PSA | Percentage of free PSA relative to total (helps differentiate cancer from benign enlargement) |
Why the Test is Done
- Routine screening for men over a certain age or with risk factors.
- Evaluation of symptoms such as urinary difficulty or pain.
- Monitoring known prostate conditions or treatment response.
Early Detection
PSA can help identify signs of prostate cancer or benign prostatic hyperplasia, but it does not diagnose on its own. A doctor interprets the result with symptoms, history, and other tests.
What an Abnormal Result Means
- High PSA may suggest prostate cancer, enlarged prostate, infection, or recent ejaculation.
- Low PSA is uncommon but can occur with very small prostates or certain medications. Many factors—hydration, diet, medications, recent activity—can influence levels.
Who Might Be Advised to Get This Test
- Men aged 50 and above.
- Men aged 45–49 with a family history of prostate cancer.
- Men with persistent urinary symptoms.
- Patients undergoing treatment for prostate conditions.
Quick Takeaway
PSA is a blood marker that helps doctors spot potential prostate issues early, but it is only one piece of the diagnostic puzzle.
Used for detecting / monitoring
Before your test
Preparation
- Fasting: No fasting required for PSA.
- Combined Tests: If you are also having a fasting test (e.g., fasting glucose), fast for the longest required period and then have the PSA.
- Procedure: A healthcare professional will draw a small amount of blood from a vein in your arm using a needle. The whole process takes about 5 minutes.
- Comfort: You may feel a brief pinch when the needle is inserted. No pain is expected after the blood is drawn.
- Precautions: No special medication adjustments are needed for PSA, but inform your clinician if you are taking medications that may affect PSA (e.g., 5‑alpha‑reductase inhibitors).
- Hydration: Stay well‑hydrated; avoid alcohol and strenuous exercise 24 h before the test.
Please confirm your specific preparation instructions with your doctor or the lab. This information is educational and not a substitute for professional medical advice.
Sample type: Blood
Report parameter guide
Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA)
A protein produced by prostate cells, measured in the blood to help screen for prostate issues
Low: Low PSA can indicate a healthy prostate or very early prostate disease
High: High PSA may indicate prostate enlargement, infection, inflammation, or prostate cancer