PSA

How the Test is Performed:
Blood is drawn from a vein ( venipuncture ), usually from the inside of the elbow or the back of the hand. The puncture site is cleaned with antiseptic, and a tourniquet (elastic band) or blood pressure cuff is placed around the upper arm to apply pressure and restrict blood flow through the vein. This causes veins below the tourniquet to distend (fill with blood). A needle is inserted into the vein, and the blood is collected in air-tight vials or a syringe. During the procedure, the tourniquet is removed to restore circulation. Once the blood has been collected, the needle is removed, and the puncture site is covered to stop any bleeding .

How to Prepare:
No special preparation is usually necessary.

How it Feels:
When the needle is inserted to draw blood, some people feel moderate pain while others feel only a prick or stinging sensation. Afterward, there may be some throbbing .

Risks:
  • excessive bleeding
  • fainting or feeling lightheaded
  • hematoma (blood accumulating under the skin)
  • infection (a slight risk any time the skin is broken)
  • multiple punctures to locate veins



Why this Test is Performed:
This test is performed to detect the presence of PSA.

PSA is a glycoprotein in the cytoplasm of prostatic epithelial cells . It can be detected in the blood of all adult men. The PSA level is greatly increased in men with prostatic cancer but can also be increased somewhat in other disorders of the prostate.

Normal Values:
less than 4 ng/ml

Note: ng/ml = nanograms per milliliter

Abnormal Results:
Greater-than-normal levels may indicate:



Cost:
The estimated cost is $81.

Special Considerations:
Not applicable.