PSA test for men: what to know

The prostate normally releases PSA into the blood. A raised result can occur with prostate enlargement, inflammation, infection, recent ejaculation, or prostate cancer, so it does not diagnose cancer by itself. A lower result does not remove every possibility either. Age, prostate size, symptoms, medicines and previous results help a clinician interpret the finding.

The test may be discussed as part of screening, when urinary symptoms need assessment, or while monitoring a known prostate condition. Results are usually considered alongside an examination and medical history rather than in isolation.

Ask the clinic whether to avoid ejaculation or strenuous cycling before the blood draw, and mention urinary infection, recent prostate procedures and medicines such as finasteride. These details can affect the result or its interpretation. Take the result to the clinician who requested it and ask whether a repeat test, examination, urine test or MRI Scan is appropriate.

Keep a record of the value, date and laboratory reference interval. Comparing results over time can be more informative than focusing on one isolated measurement.

Arrange medical review if a PSA result is outside the laboratory’s expected interval, rises compared with an earlier result, or was requested because of urinary or prostate symptoms. Seek prompt care for fever, chills, severe pelvic pain, inability to pass urine, or blood in the urine with feeling unwell, because infection or blockage may need treatment.

Ask what your result means in the context of your age and prostate history, whether anything before the test could have influenced it, and what follow-up is recommended. You can also ask how an examination or MRI Scan would add information.