About PSA

PSA levels have been shown to impact detection and monitoring for prostate health and prostate cancer.  PSA is found in prostatic cells and a baseline level usually exists in the blood which can be measured.  PSA levels can rise with infection, inflammation, and cancer.

Who Should Get Screened

PSA testing and testing guidelines vary between professional societies in their recommendations.  Ultimately, the requirement or the need to get testing should be performed in consultation with a healthcare provider. General Guidelines for PSA Testing

• PSA testing at age 40 along with a rectal examination (if life expectancy is more than 10 years)
• If you are at increased risk of Prostate cancer based on family history
• If you have had an elevated PSA (>2.5 ng/ml) in the past
• If along with a health-care provider, you believe there is a greater benefit to PSA screening.
• To monitor therapy – PSA levels can be used to monitor the effect of prostatectomy, and also after radiation or chemotherapy.

PSA Ranges (Age-Specific) PSA levels should usually be interpreted serially meaning evaluated over time.  Here are some general ranges with an overall specificity of 95% in evaluation for cancer detection.

• Age 40-49: 0-2.5 ng/ml
• Age 50-59: 0-3.5 ng/ml
• Age 60-69: 0-4.5 ng/ml
• Age 70-79: 0-6.5 ng/ml

Turn Around Time

• Note: Result turnaround times are only an estimate and may be subject to change.
• 1-3 Business days from sample arriving in our laboratory

Fasting Required:

• No Fasting Required

Specimen Type:

• Blood/Serum 2ml minimum volume

Patient Preparation

• No special preparation is needed

References: https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/457394-overview#a11