About PSA Total
Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) is a protein produced by normal and malignant cells of the prostate gland. The PSA Total test measures the overall concentration of prostate-specific antigen in the blood. It is primarily used to screen for and monitor prostate cancer, but can also indicate benign prostate conditions and prostatitis.
Reference Values
Optimal Range
Not specified
Elite Value
Not specified
Health Implications
High
Elevated levels may indicate the presence of prostate cancer or benign prostatic hyperplasia, and warrant further medical evaluation.
Low
Low levels may be associated with conditions other than prostate issues and often don't pose a significant health risk.
Symptoms
High
May include frequent urination, difficulty starting or stopping urination, and lower back pain.
Low
Typically no symptoms, but could potentially include a lower energy level or unexplained fatigue.
Lifestyle Factors
Specimen Type
Testing Methods
Also Known As
Scientific Sources
- Carter, H. B., Albertsen, P. C., Barry, M. J., Etzioni, R., Freedland, S. J., Greene, K. L., ... & Zietman, A. L. (2018). Early detection of prostate cancer: AUA guideline. *The Journal of Urology*, 190(2), 419-426.
- Mottet, N., van den Bergh, R. C. N., Briers, E., Bourke, L., Cornford, P., De Santis, M., ... & van der Kwast, T. H. (2020). EAU-EANM-ESTRO-ESUR-SIOG guidelines on prostate cancer—2020 update. *European Urology*, 79(2), 243-262.
- US Preventive Services Task Force. (2018). Screening for prostate cancer: US Preventive Services Task Force recommendation statement. *JAMA*, 319(18), 1901-1913.
- National Comprehensive Cancer Network. (2021). NCCN clinical practice guidelines in oncology: Prostate cancer early detection. *NCCN Guidelines*.
- American Cancer Society. (2022). Prostate cancer: Early detection. *ACS Guidelines*.