Can this result diagnose a condition on its own?

No. The result should be interpreted with symptoms, medical history, assay method and related tests.

Which reference range should I use?

Use the performing laboratory's own reference or decision range and reporting method first.

When should I discuss the result with a healthcare professional?

Reactive/positive, clearly abnormal, persistent or symptom-associated results should be reviewed by a healthcare professional.

Information about a laboratory test

Total PSA What Does This Test Mean?

Total PSA measures total prostate-specific antigen in blood.

Test summary

Test name: Total PSA
Abbreviations: Total PSA, tPSA, PSA
Category: Urology / Tumor Markers
Panel: Prostate Evaluation
Specimen: Serum / plasma
Common units: ng/mL, µg/L

What does the test measure?

Total PSA measures total prostate-specific antigen in blood.

Why is the test ordered?

Total PSA is used in prostate evaluation and follow-up; the result does not diagnose prostate cancer by itself.

Information about a low result

A lower PSA result does not by itself rule out prostate disease.

Information about a high result

High total PSA can occur with prostate cancer as well as benign prostate enlargement, prostatitis and other conditions.

Reference and clinical context

Start with the performing laboratory's reference or decision range, assay method, specimen and reporting unit. A single result usually does not establish a diagnosis on its own.

Reference ranges may vary by laboratory, method used, age, sex, pregnancy status, and clinical context. The reference range on your own laboratory report takes precedence.

Interpretation notes

PSA can be affected by age, prostate conditions, some procedures and medicines. Results need clinical context.

Related specialties

Urology
Oncology

Frequently asked questions

More information about this test

Total PSA High Result: What Does It Mean?

Sources

Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) Test — U.S. National Library of Medicine (MedlinePlus)
Government medical reference · 2025 · Total/free PSA use, interpretation and limitations · Verified: Aug 12, 2026
Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) Test — National Cancer Institute
U.S. government cancer reference · 2025 · PSA screening, limitations and follow-up context · Verified: Aug 12, 2026
Definition of free PSA — National Cancer Institute
U.S. government cancer terminology · 2026 · Free PSA and relationship to protein-bound PSA · Verified: Aug 12, 2026