PSA
Prostate-specific antigen screening. This test does not diagnose or rule out cancer on its own.
About this test
PSA is a prostate-related blood marker used in shared decisions about prostate cancer screening and selected follow-up.
Common reasons for testing
- Screening after discussing personal risk, potential benefits, and harms with a clinician.
- Follow-up of a previously raised PSA or a clinician-directed prostate care plan.
These are examples of clinical uses. Your history and symptoms determine whether testing is appropriate.
What to expect
A small blood sample is taken from a vein in your arm. You may feel a brief pinch and have mild bruising. Tell the person collecting your sample if you have fainted with needles or take a blood thinner; keep pressure on the site afterward.
Appointment length
Your visit is expected to take about 15 minutes at our West Ashley location.
Categories
Preparation
- Tell the clinician about urinary infection, retention, catheterization, recent prostate procedures, and medicines such as finasteride or dutasteride.
- Ask whether to avoid ejaculation before collection and when to test after infection or a procedure.
- Bring a list of medicines and supplements, including biotin, vitamins, and hormones. Do not stop or change prescribed medicines unless your clinician tells you to.
Order requirement
No outside order needed
Understanding your results
- Benign enlargement, inflammation, and recent procedures can raise PSA. The test cannot diagnose or exclude cancer by itself.
- A newly elevated result is often repeated before further testing.
What happens next?
Review the report with your clinician alongside your symptoms, medical history, and earlier results. A value outside the reference range does not always mean disease, and a normal result does not explain every symptom. Confirm who will arrange any repeat or additional testing.
Sources & further reading
This patient summary draws on published clinical literature and professional guidance. Patient resources are identified separately below. Preparation also depends on your specific order and the collecting laboratory or imaging team.
- Early Detection of Prostate Cancer: AUA/SUO Guideline Part I
Journal of Urology, 2023
Content updated October 11, 2026. General education; individual advice comes from your care team.
Know the cost before your visit
Palmetto Preventive is a direct-pay service. You will see clear payment terms before your booking is finalized — no surprise lab bill.
Self-pay price
One transparent price for this test. Payment terms are presented before your booking is finalized.
Start bookingOur pricing promise
Transparent self-pay pricing — you see the price before you book.
No surprise lab bill after your visit.
If testing is not approved, your payment is refunded in full.
Ready to get started?
Start the guided booking. It takes just a few minutes, and you can move back and forth without losing your answers.