Other common tests
PSA blood test: what a high result means
What a PSA (prostate-specific antigen) result means, why PSA can be raised, and what to ask your doctor.
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Explain my results → Available on web, iOS & Android.What is PSA?
PSA, or prostate-specific antigen, is a protein made by the prostate gland. A small amount normally leaks into the blood. A raised PSA can be a sign of a prostate problem, including prostate cancer, but most men with a raised PSA do not have cancer. PSA is also used to monitor men who have been treated for prostate cancer.
Why is this test done?
- To investigate urinary symptoms, such as passing urine often or a weak flow
- At a man's request after discussing the pros and cons with a doctor
- To monitor prostate cancer or its treatment
- To follow up a previous raised result
What does a high PSA mean?
A raised PSA means further assessment is needed, but it does not mean you have cancer. Many raised results have other causes.
Possible reasons include:
- An enlarged prostate (benign prostatic hyperplasia), which is common with age
- Prostate infection or inflammation (prostatitis)
- A urine infection
- Recent ejaculation, vigorous exercise such as cycling, or a prostate examination
- Prostate cancer
What does a low PSA mean?
A low PSA is generally reassuring, although no PSA result can completely rule out prostate cancer.
Why we don't list a "normal range". Reference ranges differ between laboratories and can depend on your age, sex and whether you are pregnant. The range printed next to your result on your own report is the one that applies to you, so use that, and talk to your doctor about what your result means for you.
What can affect your PSA result?
- Ejaculation in the two days before the test
- Vigorous exercise, such as cycling, before the test
- A urine infection
- A recent prostate examination or procedure
- Medicines for an enlarged prostate or hair loss, such as finasteride or dutasteride, which typically cut your measured PSA level roughly in half
Make sense of the whole report, not just one line
Results are easier to understand together. Patiently AI explains your report as a whole and writes personalised questions for your next appointment.
Try it with your own results → Paste, upload or photograph your results.Questions to ask your doctor
- Is my PSA raised for my age?
- Does my family history or ethnic background, for example being a Black man, affect my risk?
- Could an infection or recent activity have affected it?
- Should the test be repeated before deciding on further tests?
- What are the next steps, such as an MRI scan, and what are their pros and cons?
Frequently asked questions
Does a high PSA mean I have prostate cancer?
No. Most men with a raised PSA do not have prostate cancer. An enlarged prostate, infection and recent activity can all raise PSA. Your doctor will usually repeat the test or arrange further assessment, often an MRI scan.
How should I prepare for a PSA test?
You may be advised to avoid ejaculation and vigorous exercise, such as cycling, for about two days before the test, and to wait about six weeks after a urine infection has been treated.
Can PSA miss prostate cancer?
Yes. Some men with prostate cancer have a normal PSA, so if you have symptoms or concerns, talk to your doctor even if your PSA is normal.
Can Patiently AI explain my PSA result?
Yes. Paste your results, or upload a photo, PDF or Word file, and Patiently AI explains them in plain English, sticking to the numbers and ranges on your own report rather than adding its own, and suggests questions to ask your doctor. It is free, needs no account, and removes identifying details on your device first.