Understanding the marker
PSA is a protein made by the prostate. The test can help investigate prostate problems, including cancer, after discussion of the benefits and limitations of testing.
PSA can rise with prostate enlargement, inflammation or cancer. Age, previous results, symptoms, medicines and recent procedures affect interpretation. The result cannot confirm or rule out cancer by itself. Any repeat test or further investigation follows the individual assessment.
What does high PSA mean?
A raised PSA needs medical assessment. Several prostate conditions can raise it, so the value is not a cancer diagnosis. Symptoms, previous results and sampling circumstances guide any repeat testing or investigation.
What does low PSA mean?
A low PSA is generally associated with a lower likelihood of prostate cancer. It does not exclude disease or replace assessment of symptoms. Age, medicines and previous values still matter.
Reading
More markers in the same area
- PSA ratio (free to total)PSA result
- Estradiola form of the hormone estrogen
- Progesteronea hormone that can support evidence of recent ovulation
- FSHa hormone signal to the ovaries or testes
- LHa hormone signal involved in reproductive function
- Testosteronea hormone involved in reproductive and muscle function
This is general information about the marker, not an assessment of your values and not medical advice. Last updated: October 2026.