PSA-Free Prostate Specific Antigen Serum

A free PSA test is often used to screen patients with total PSA levels between 4 -10 ng/mL. Patients with significantly higher Total PSA than Free PSA are offered prostate biopsy to diagnose their condition.

This test measures free PSA in serum.

PSA is a protein produced by the prostate gland, and elevated levels can indicate the presence of prostate cancer or benign conditions such as an enlarged prostate (BPH).

This test requires a blood sample. A tourniquet (elastic) band is placed tightly on the upper arm. The patient is then asked to make a fist. This helps in the build-up of blood filling the veins. The skin is disinfected before needle insertion and the blood sample is collected in a vacutainer. 

The Free Prostate Specific Antigen Serum (PSA) test is a simple blood test that can be done in a doctor's office or lab. Here is an overview of what we can expect during the test:

• A healthcare professional will draw blood from a vein in the arm, usually from the inside of the elbow or the back of the hand.
• The blood sample will be sent to a lab for analysis. The lab will measure the amount of free PSA in the blood sample.
• Patients will typically receive test results within a few days. The healthcare provider will go over the results and explain what they mean. 

Levels below or within the reference interval indicate a low/ no chance of prostate cancer.
Low Free PSA or low Free / Total PSA ratio is linked to prostate cancer. Biopsy advisable.

If a Free Prostate Specific Antigen Serum (PSA) test results are normal, it means that the level of PSA in the blood is within the normal range for men of the same age and race. If the test results are abnormal, it means that the level of PSA in the blood is higher than normal. This could indicate the presence of prostate cancer, an enlarged prostate, or a non-cancerous condition. 

The Free Prostate Specific Antigen Serum (PSA) test is typically done as part of a man's routine screening for prostate cancer. It is usually ordered after a total PSA test shows a high level of PSA in the blood or if a digital rectal exam (DRE) reveals an enlarged prostate or an abnormal lump. The test can also be used to monitor prostate cancer progression in men who have already been diagnosed.

To prepare for a Free Prostate Specific Antigen Serum (PSA) test, we should avoid any activities that can cause an increase in PSA levels, such as sexual activity or biking, for at least 24 hours before the test. Additionally, we should avoid taking supplements or medications that can affect PSA levels for at least a week before the test. It is also recommended to avoid eating or drinking anything for a few hours before the test.

• The free PSA test is important because it can help provide additional information when interpreting the results of a standard PSA test.
• Elevated levels of PSA can indicate the presence of prostate cancer.
• Elevation in PSA can happen for several reasons, including benign prostate conditions such as an enlarged prostate or prostatitis.
• Additionally, this test can help identify men who may have prostate cancer at an earlier stage and may be candidates for active surveillance rather than immediate treatment.

The free PSA test measures the level of free PSA in the blood, while the standard PSA test measures the total level of PSA in the blood. Free PSA is the portion of PSA that is not bound to other proteins, while the total PSA includes both free and bound PSA.

The Free PSA test is typically recommended for men over 40 or 50 who are at high risk for prostate cancer (such as those with a family history). 

Free PSA Test