Prostate Specific Antigen (Total) Test

Measures total prostate-specific antigen (PSA) in blood. PSA can be raised for reasons other than cancer and some prostate cancers do not raise PSA; discuss whether testing is appropriate and what the result means with a clinician.

At a glance

• Sample: Blood
• Collection: Self-collected sample using the supplied kit
• Estimated turnaround: 1 day from laboratory receipt of a usable sample

What this test measures

Total prostate-specific antigen (PSA)

A prostate protein that can be raised for cancerous and non-cancerous reasons. A raised result can occur with prostate cancer, benign enlargement, inflammation or recent prostate stimulation and normally requires clinician-led follow-up.

How clinicians use this test

Clinicians may use Total prostate-specific antigen (PSA) as one part of investigating symptoms, estimating risk or planning follow-up. Tumour and risk markers cannot diagnose or exclude cancer on their own.

Is this the right test for you?

Someone considering this marker after discussing its benefits, limitations and follow-up with a clinician. It is not a substitute for symptom assessment or an NHS screening pathway.

Preparation and collection

Return the sample on the same day it is collected. Do not post over weekends or bank holidays.

Understanding your result

The laboratory will report Total prostate-specific antigen (PSA) with an assay-specific reference range, threshold or qualitative interpretation. Read the biomarker explanation above for common reasons a result may be high, low, detected or reactive, then use the laboratory comment and clinical context to decide whether repeat or follow-up testing is needed.

Your results and next steps

Share any raised, positive or unexpected result with your GP or the clinician who advised testing. Further assessment may include examination, imaging or another test.

Limitations

This test cannot diagnose or rule out cancer by itself. False-positive and false-negative results are possible, and symptoms require assessment regardless of the result.

When to get medical help

Do not wait for a home-test result if you feel seriously unwell. Call 999 for a life-threatening emergency, or use NHS 111 when you need urgent advice and are unsure what to do.