PSA
A protein produced by the prostate, used in prostate cancer screening.
What is it
Prostate-specific antigen is a protein produced by prostate cells. PSA is used in screening and monitoring of prostate cancer, though levels can also rise from benign causes.
Why it's measured
PSA has been studied extensively in prostate cancer screening research. Clinical interpretation requires age and family history context.
Reference range
Standard laboratory reference
< 4.0 ng/mL
Reference ranges vary by laboratory. Your individual reference range will appear on your test report and should be interpreted by your physician in the context of your overall health profile.
What results may indicate
Elevated
Warrants clinical evaluation. Can rise from benign prostatic hyperplasia, prostatitis, or cancer.
Lower
Is generally considered favorable.
These associations are general. They are not a personal diagnosis or prediction. Discuss your individual results with your physician in the context of your full health profile.
When it's measured
Used in prostate cancer screening, typically in men over 50 or earlier with family history.
Related markers
Common questions
Prostate-specific antigen is a protein produced by prostate cells. PSA is used in screening and monitoring of prostate cancer, though levels can also rise from benign causes.
It's one of the markers used to build a fuller picture of your health. On its own it tells you very little, so it's most informative when reviewed alongside related markers.
It's measured from a standard blood draw at Quest or LabCorp. PSA Total is one of the markers included in the OPTML Apex Panel, where your results are read across systems and reviewed by a U.S.-licensed physician.
Reference ranges vary by laboratory, and a single value rarely tells the whole story. Review your result with a physician in the context of your other markers, symptoms, and history.
PSA Total is one signal among many. Answer a few quick questions and we’ll point you to the panel that fits.
Measured in
A complete look at your heart, hormones, metabolism, inflammation, and longevity systems — drawn at Quest or LabCorp, reviewed by a U.S.-licensed physician.
Explore the Apex Panel →This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Lab results alone are not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any condition and do not replace the advice of a healthcare provider. OPTML does not offer medical advice, a diagnosis, medical treatment, or any form of medical opinion.