Test Details
PSA, Total
PSA is secreted by epithelial cells of the prostate gland and is present in small quantities in the serum of men with healthy prostate glands. Total serum PSA assay is an adjunct to a rectal examination for the screening of prostate cancer, as well as for follow-up of patients with diagnosed prostate cancer.
Methodology
Electrochemiluminescence immunoassay
Patient Preparation
Recommend waiting at least 24 hours after a rectal exam before testing PSA
Preferred Specimen
1.0 mL serum (0.5 mL minimum) collected in serum separator tube (SST / Tiger Top)
Alternate Specimen
None
Transport Temperature
Refrigerated (ship on frozen cold packs)
Stability
Refrigerated: 5 days
Lab Values
PSA, Total
- Optimal: < 4.0 ng/mL
- Borderline: 4.0 – 10.0 ng/mL
- High: > 10.0 ng/mL
Clinical Significance
PSA, Total
Increased levels are associated with an increased risk of prostate cancer, but may also be seen in subjects with benign prostatic hypertrophy.
- These assays no longer show biotin interference in serum concentrations up to 1200 ng/mL.
- This test is performed using the Roche Diagnostics chemiluminescent method. Values obtained from different assay methods cannot be used interchangeably. PSA levels, regardless of value, should not be interpreted as absolute evidence of the presence or absence of disease.
Treatment Options
PSA, Total
PSA levels can be used to monitor for prostate cancer in men receiving testosterone replacement.
