PSA Testing

What is PSA Testing?

PSA testing is a simple test to measure prostate-specific antigen (PSA) in your blood. This protein is made by the prostate gland, and whilst elevated levels can indicate prostate problems, they don't always mean cancer. This test serves as an important screening tool, helping detect potential prostate issues early when treatment is most effective.

How PSA Testing Works

PSA testing involves taking a small blood sample, typically from a vein in your arm. The sample is then sent to our laboratory for analysis, where sophisticated equipment measures the concentration of PSA protein in your blood. Results are usually available within 24-48 hours.

Normal and cancerous prostate cells make PSA, so elevated PSA doesn't automatically indicate cancer. Many benign conditions can raise PSA levels, including benign prostatic hyperplasia (enlarged prostate), prostatitis (prostate inflammation), urinary tract infections, recent ejaculation, and vigorous exercise. Your healthcare provider will interpret your results within the context of your age, symptoms, medical history, and other risk factors.

What Can PSA Testing Be Used For?

PSA testing serves multiple purposes in prostate health management. At LivingCare, we commonly use PSA testing to screen men over 50, or earlier if you have certain risk factors such as a family history of prostate cancer. The test aids in early detection, when treatment is most effective.

PSA testing is valuable for monitoring benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), investigating urinary symptoms such as frequent urination or weak flow, and monitoring treatment response in men already diagnosed with prostate cancer. The test also provides a baseline measurement for future comparison. Regular testing allows detection of significant changes over time, which can be more informative than a single result.

What to Expect When Receiving PSA Testing

Before Your Appointment
‍For at least 48 hours before your test, avoid ejaculation and vigorous exercise, particularly cycling, as these can temporarily raise PSA levels. If you've had urological procedures such as cystoscopy or prostate biopsy, wait at least six weeks before testing. If you have a urinary tract infection, wait until it's been treated before testing.

Inform your healthcare provider about all medications, particularly finasteride or dutasteride, as these can lower PSA levels. There's no need to fast – you can eat and drink normally. Wear comfortable clothing with sleeves to roll up.

During Your Appointment
‍When you arrive for your PSA test, our healthcare professional will verify your details and explain the procedure to you. You'll sit comfortably with one arm extended. A small needle is inserted into a vein, and blood is drawn into small tubes – a process that takes just a few seconds. You may feel a brief, sharp scratch as the needle enters. The entire process typically takes less than five minutes, and you can leave immediately afterwards.

After Your Appointment
‍You can resume all normal activities straight away. Results can be ready in 24 to 48 hours. You'll be contacted to discuss the findings. If your PSA level is within the normal range, you may be advised to have regular monitoring. If elevated, your healthcare provider will discuss what this might mean and whether further investigations are recommended, such as a repeat test, digital rectal examination, or referral for an MRI scan or prostate biopsy.

How to Recover Following PSA Testing

As PSA testing is straightforward, there's no recovery period. Any bruising at the needle site will typically fade within a few days

References

• ‍NHS – PSA Testing
• ‍Prostate Cancer UK – PSA Test Information‍