PSA (Total) (PSA) | LabsVault

What is PSA (Total)?

Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) is a protein produced by prostate cells. Total PSA includes both free and protein-bound forms circulating in blood. While primarily used for prostate cancer screening, PSA can be elevated by various prostate conditions including benign enlargement and inflammation.

Why is it Tested?

Doctors order PSA for prostate cancer screening in men, typically starting at age 50 (or earlier with risk factors). It’s also used to monitor treatment response in prostate cancer patients and detect recurrence after treatment.

Normal Ranges

PSA interpretation for men:

Normal: <4.0 ng/mL
Borderline: 4.0–10.0 ng/mL
Elevated: >10.0 ng/mL

Age-adjusted ranges are sometimes used, as PSA naturally increases with age. Values must be interpreted alongside clinical findings and other risk factors.

Reference ranges vary by authority. Track yours across multiple standards with automatic unit conversions in LabsVault.

What do Abnormal Results Mean?

Abnormal results are not a diagnosis. Always discuss your results with a qualified healthcare provider before making any medical decisions.

Borderline PSA (4.0-10.0)

Moderately elevated levels may indicate:

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)
Prostatitis (prostate inflammation)
Recent prostate procedures or exam
Early-stage prostate cancer

High PSA (>10.0)

Significantly elevated levels suggest:

Higher prostate cancer probability
Advanced or aggressive cancer
Need for immediate urological evaluation
Consideration for prostate biopsy

How to Track Over Time

PSA velocity (rate of change over time) provides valuable information beyond single measurements. Rapidly rising PSA levels may indicate cancer even when absolute values remain within normal ranges. Regular monitoring helps detect concerning trends early.

PSA (Total)