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PSA Test

By , About.com Guide

Updated September 11, 2006

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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

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