Pathology tests database

Sample and container requirements

Serum

Minimum volume required

Special requirements

None

Patient preparation

None

Sample viability

Turnaround time

This assay is run throughout the day and night. The in-lab turnaround time is normally less than 24 hours.

Reference range

Urology West Midlands EAG recommendations (based on NICE guidelines) for 2 week wait referrals based on PSA levels are: <40 years: use clinical judgement 40 – 49 years: >2.5 μg/L 50 – 59 years: >3.5 μg/L 60 – 69 years: >4.5 μg/L 70 – 79 years: >6.5 μg/L 80+ years: use clinical judgement

Clinical guidance

As a tumour marker for prostatic cancer, PSA demonstrates high tissue specificity and serum concentrations correlate well with tumour mass and clinical stage. However, elevated concentrations cannot be considered diagnostic of prostatic cancer, as PSA can be elevated in 15% of patients with benign prostatic hypertrophy. Please refer to LabTestsOnlineUK to learn more about PSA. https://labtestsonline.org.uk/tests/prostate-specific-antigen-psa

Notes