Prostate Tumour Marker (PSA)

Measures the level of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) in your blood

Results within 24 hours

£110

What is this test?

The PSA blood test checks for prostate abnormalities, including cancer, by measuring prostate-specific antigen levels. However, it's not a conclusive diagnostic tool for prostate cancer. Elevated PSA levels may prompt further testing, like a biopsy. The PSA test has limitations, such as false positives/negatives, so healthcare providers must interpret results carefully. The decision to get a PSA test should involve an informed discussion of its benefits and limitations.

It is important to note that a PSA blood test cannot diagnose prostate cancer conclusively. A high PSA level can be a sign of prostate cancer, but it can also be caused by other conditions such as an enlarged prostate, prostatitis or urinary tract infections.

Common Symptoms

Urinary changes:

Frequent urination, particularly at night (nocturia)
Urgency to urinate
Difficulty starting or stopping urination
Weak urine flow or a hesitant, interrupted flow
Incomplete emptying of the bladder

Blood in urine or semen:

Presence of blood in the urine (hematuria)
Blood in semen (hematospermia)

Erectile dysfunction:

Difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection

Pain and discomfort:

Pain or discomfort during urination (dysuria)
Pelvic pain or discomfort
Lower back pain, especially in the area near the prostate
Discomfort in the groin area

Other symptoms:

Unexplained weight loss
Fatigue or a general feeling of being unwell
Swelling or oedema in the legs

How long does it take?

The test turnaround is 24 hours.

Type of sample

Blood sample

What is included in this test

Prostate Biomarkers

Prostate biomarkers detect potential abnormalities in the prostate, such as prostate cancer or benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). It helps in the early detection and monitoring of prostate diseases.

Biomarkers:

Total PSA Free PSA Calculated Ratio

The benefits of this blood test

Check the prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood marker
Get support and advice from our GPs
Lifestyle advice

Understanding Prostate Health

If you have a family history, are of black ethnic origin, or are overweight, your prostate cancer risk is elevated.

Addressing Symptoms

PSA testing is only one part of a diagnostic journey for urinary issues and pain. It's important to note that symptoms may not always indicate prostate cancer.