Insight into your PSA level.
PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) is a protein produced by the prostate. The level provides information about the prostate and is often measured as part of prostate monitoring.
Also known as: prostate-specific antigen, prostate value
Personal assessment by our BIG-registered Bloodworks® doctors
By the Bloodworks editorial team
PSA blood test
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Background
What is PSA?
PSA stands for Prostate-Specific Antigen, a protein produced by the prostate gland that enters the blood in small amounts. PSA is "prostate-specific" in that it is produced exclusively by prostate tissue, but it is not a specific marker for any one particular condition.
The PSA level can be elevated for various reasons, not only prostate cancer, but also benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), prostatitis, a recent cycle ride, ejaculation within 48 hours, or a digital rectal examination. Reference values are age-dependent: what is normal for a 70-year-old may be elevated for a 40-year-old. PSA is a standard measurement within the framework of NHG guidelines relating to prostate monitoring.
In brief
Prostate protein
Produced in the prostate gland
Age-dependent
Different reference range per age
Non-specific
Elevation has multiple causes
NHG-compliant
Part of the prostate guideline
Common reasons to test
When can insight into your PSA be valuable?
Below are some situations in which measuring PSA can provide insight.
Insight into your level
A test gives a baseline or follow-up measurement of your PSA level.
From middle age onwards
From the age of 50 to 55, PSA is more commonly measured as part of prostate monitoring; with a family history, earlier testing is considered.
With a family history
Prostate cancer runs in families. With a family history, PSA monitoring can begin at an earlier age.
With a previously abnormal value
Those who have previously had an elevated or borderline value can use a repeat measurement to track the trend.
For periodic monitoring
Men wishing to monitor their health periodically include PSA as part of a broader check.
In consultation with your healthcare provider
Some men measure PSA following discussion with their GP or urologist as part of an agreed monitoring plan.
What your result means
Raised PSA: what does your result mean?
PSA is measured in nanograms per millilitre (ng/mL). Reference values are age-dependent. Our doctor interprets your value against the age-specific guideline and your personal context. Reference ranges also differ between laboratories and measurement methods; the ranges reported by the laboratory that performs your test are the ones that apply.
A low value
A low PSA level gives a reassuring picture for this moment. Periodic re-testing can be worthwhile as part of general health monitoring from middle age onwards, particularly with a family history.
A normal value for your age
A PSA within the age-adjusted reference range is reassuring. The trend between measurements often says more than a single result on its own. Our doctor provides explanation and context.
An elevated value
An elevated PSA warrants further investigation, but does not automatically mean prostate cancer is present. Many benign factors can raise PSA. For elevated values, our doctor provides explanation and context, and indicates whether a repeat test or follow-up is customary.
How we interpret your result
Our doctors interpret your PSA against the age-adjusted reference ranges and your personal context, including previous PSA values where available (trend), family history, and recent activities that can temporarily raise PSA.
Related tests
Often combined with PSA.
A single marker gives one perspective. For a broader picture you can combine PSA with a theme package or related markers.
+ 29,- blood draw fee per orderFree from 225,-
Frequently asked questions
Everything you want to know
What are the pros and cons of the PSA test?
The PSA test can detect prostate cancer at an early stage. At the same time, a raised value often has a harmless cause, and the test can lead to follow-up (such as a biopsy) or to finding a slow-growing cancer that would never cause symptoms (overdiagnosis). Testing for prostate cancer is therefore a personal choice. The independent decision aid from Thuisarts (in Dutch) can help: https://www.thuisarts.nl/keuzehulp/testen-op-prostaatkanker
Do I need to fast for a PSA test?
No, you do not need to fast for a PSA measurement.
What can temporarily raise my PSA level?
Various factors can temporarily raise PSA, including a cycle ride shortly before the measurement, ejaculation within 48 hours, a recent digital rectal examination, or prostatitis. For a reliable measurement, it is advisable to avoid sexual activity and intensive cycling for 48 hours beforehand.
From what age is PSA testing worthwhile?
In the Netherlands, PSA is not routinely measured in a population screening programme. Many men consider testing from the age of 50 to 55, and earlier with a family history. It is a personal decision which you can discuss with your GP.
What is the difference between total PSA and free PSA?
Total PSA measures all PSA in the blood. Free PSA measures the unbound fraction. The ratio between the two can provide additional information in specific situations, often in consultation with a urologist.
How often should PSA be measured?
For a single measurement for insight, once is sufficient. For follow-up or monitoring, annual or biennial testing is common, depending on age, previous values, and family history.
What if my PSA is elevated?
For elevated values, our doctor provides explanation and context with your result. Follow-up typically begins with a repeat measurement.
What do I do with my result?
You will receive a PDF report with your value and explanation. What you do with it, such as discussing it with your GP, remains entirely your choice.
Can I share my report with my GP?
Yes, the report is written in medical language and contains all relevant laboratory information. Many men bring it to their GP.
In the Health Guide
Read more about this value
Where do you give blood?
You can give blood at collection points across the Netherlands, usually without an appointment.
Find a collection point near you or read how a blood draw works.
Want to test multiple markers at once?
Combine PSA with other markers via Bloodworks Select. The blood draw and collection fee is charged once per order, and is waived from 225,-.
Ready for insight into your PSA level?
You receive your PSA level including personal explanation from a doctor, typically within 2 working days. No referral required.