1. Home
  2. Health
  3. Cancer

PSA Test

By , About.com Guide

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by our Medical Review Board

Question: PSA Test

What is a PSA test? My doctor has ordered one for me and I am not sure exactly what the PSA test is.

Answer: A PSA test measures the amount of PSA in the blood. The prostate gland produces a protein called prostate specific antigen, or PSA for short.

The higher amounts of PSA found, the more likely prostate cancer is present. A high PSA level does not always mean cancer, however.

The test consists of a simple blood draw, and results are generally available within hours to a few days depending on the lab facilities your physician uses.

More About Prostate Cancer

More Cancer Q&A
Explore Cancer
About.com Special Features

Conquering High Cholesterol

Learn how you can reduce your your numbers with these nutrition and exercise tips. More >

Healthy Bodies, Healthy Minds

Keep yourself, and your family, happy and healthy this fall with these tips. More >

We comply with the HONcode standard for trustworthy health information: verify here.
  1. Home
  2. Health
  3. Cancer
  4. Men's Cancers
  5. Prostate Cancer
  6. Prostate Cancer Screening
  7. PSA Test

©2009 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company.

All rights reserved.