Prostate-Specific Antigen - PSA Test
This test measures the blood level of a protein produced by the prostate gland.
This blood test measures the level of a protein produced by the prostate gland. Prostate cancer (and some non-cancerous conditions) may cause an elevation of the prostate-specific antigen (PSA).
- A PSA test is used to screen for prostate cancer. However, its use is controversial, so you should discuss with your healthcare provider whether obtaining this test is right for you.
- It may also be used to monitor the course of prostate cancer or find out how well a man responds to treatment.
The blood sample is usually taken by placing a needle in a vein in the arm. In some cases the sample may be taken by pricking a finger.
- No special preparation is needed for this test.
- Your healthcare provider may recommend that you have the PSA test either before or at least 48 hours after a digital rectal exam. This may help prevent a falsely high result.
- This care path's costs do not include the charge to draw blood from a vein (venipuncture).
- There will only be one charge to draw blood, even if multiple tests are being performed on the samples that are taken.
What should I ask my healthcare provider before having this test?
- Is there any special preparation for the test? (If so, get clear instructions on what you need to do.)
- What is the reason for the test? Will the test results change my treatment plan? If not, do I need the test?
Source UHC.com
Also known as:
PSA Blood TestPSAProstate-Specific Antigen - PSA TestProstate Specific AntigenProstate Cancer ScreeningLaboratory Work
This blood test measures the level of a protein produced by the prostate gland. Prostate cancer (and some non-cancerous conditions) may cause an elevation of the prostate-specific antigen (PSA).
- A PSA test is used to screen for prostate cancer. However, its use is controversial, so you should discuss with your healthcare provider whether obtaining this test is right for you.
- It may also be used to monitor the course of prostate cancer or find out how well a man responds to treatment.
The blood sample is usually taken by placing a needle in a vein in the arm. In some cases the sample may be taken by pricking a finger.
- No special preparation is needed for this test.
- Your healthcare provider may recommend that you have the PSA test either before or at least 48 hours after a digital rectal exam. This may help prevent a falsely high result.
- This care path's costs do not include the charge to draw blood from a vein (venipuncture).
- There will only be one charge to draw blood, even if multiple tests are being performed on the samples that are taken.
What should I ask my healthcare provider before having this test?
- Is there any special preparation for the test? (If so, get clear instructions on what you need to do.)
- What is the reason for the test? Will the test results change my treatment plan? If not, do I need the test?
Source UHC.com
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