PSA blood test
A protein made by the prostate gland.
- Typical range (adult men)
- below 4 ng/mL
- Panel
- Other
- Also called
- Prostate-specific antigen
Reference ranges vary between labs; use the range on your own report. Results need to be read by a doctor alongside your symptoms and other tests.
Why it’s tested
Checked in men over 40 and in anyone on testosterone, which can enlarge the prostate.
What can raise it
- Benign prostate enlargement
- Prostate infection or inflammation
- Recent cycling or ejaculation
- Testosterone use
- Prostate cancer
What can lower it
- Usually not a concern
- 5-alpha reductase inhibitors such as finasteride lower it
Getting an accurate result
- Test in the morning, especially for hormones, which run highest early in the day.
- Stay hydrated, and test at the same lab and time of day each time so results compare fairly.
Other other tests
Questions
What is a normal PSA level?
A typical adult male reference range is below 4 ng/mL. Ranges differ for women, by age and between labs, so compare with the range printed on your report.
What does high PSA mean?
Common reasons include benign prostate enlargement, prostate infection or inflammation, recent cycling or ejaculation, testosterone use and prostate cancer. One result outside the range isn't a diagnosis: a doctor will look at it with your other markers and history.
What does low PSA mean?
Common reasons include usually not a concern and 5-alpha reductase inhibitors such as finasteride lower it.