Free PSA Test
Also known as: Tota PSA/Free PSA Ratio, Serum
Tota PSA/Free PSA Ratio, Serum Details in Brief
| Also Known As | PSA with Free PSA Ratio Test, Prostate-Specific Antigen (Free/Total) Test |
|---|---|
| Purpose | Helps differentiate prostate cancer from benign prostate conditions and monitor prostate health |
| Preparation | Avoid prostate manipulation (DRE/USG) for 7 days before the test; avoid high-dose Biotin (>5 mg/day) for at least 8 hours before sample collection |
| Fasting | Fasting not required |
| Reporting Time | After 6 hours |
| Cost | 1,800 |
What is a Free PSA Test?
The Free PSA Test is a blood test that measures the level of unbound (free) prostate-specific antigen (PSA) in the bloodstream. PSA is a protein produced by the prostate gland that helps liquefy semen. In blood, PSA exists in two forms Bound PSA (Attached to blood proteins) and Free PSA (Circulates freely without being attached).
The Free PSA Test, when used with Total PSA, helps doctors calculate the Free-to-Total PSA Ratio, a key indicator in differentiating between benign prostate conditions (like BPH or prostatitis) and prostate cancer.
What Does a Free PSA Test Measure?
This test measures:
- Total PSA – The total concentration of PSA in the blood (free + bound).
- Free PSA – The unbound fraction of PSA circulating freely in the blood.
- Free/Total PSA Ratio – The proportion of free PSA relative to total PSA.
A lower free PSA percentage (usually below 10%) indicates a higher probability of prostate cancer, whereas a higher percentage (above 25%) generally suggests a benign condition.
Free PSA Test: Who Needs It and Why It’s Done
Why is a Free PSA Test Done?
The Free PSA Test is performed to:
- Assess prostate health in men over 40 or with urinary symptoms.
- Differentiate between prostate cancer and non-cancerous prostate conditions.
- Evaluate elevated Total PSA levels (4–10 ng/mL range).
- Guide the need for prostate biopsy based on cancer risk.
- Monitor treatment response in prostate cancer patients.
What Symptoms May Call for a Free PSA Test?
Your doctor may suggest this test if you experience:
- Difficulty urinating or frequent urination, especially at night.
- Weak urine flow or interrupted stream.
- Pelvic or lower back pain.
- Elevated Total PSA in previous reports.
- Family history of prostate cancer.
Importance of Free PSA Test
The Free PSA Test provides a more accurate assessment of prostate cancer risk than Total PSA alone. This test allows early detection, better differentiation between conditions, and supports timely treatment planning.
How to Book the Free PSA Test with Metropolis Healthcare
How to Book the Free PSA Test and Get Your Reports?
- Book Online
Visit the Metropolis Healthcare website or app to schedule the Free PSA Test at your convenience. - Choose Sample Collection Option
Select home sample collection or visit your nearest Metropolis Lab. - Sample Collection
A trained technician draws a 3 ml blood sample using a sterile gel vacutainer. - Testing Method
The sample is analysed using Electrochemiluminescence Immunoassay (ECLIA) in NABL & CAP accredited laboratories. - Quick Reporting
Receive accurate reports within 6 hours, accessible via email, WhatsApp, or the Metropolis app.
Is Home Sample Collection Available for the Free PSA Test?
Yes. Metropolis Healthcare offers safe and hygienic home sample collection for the Free PSA Test. Our phlebotomists follow strict quality and safety protocols for convenient and reliable sample collection from the comfort of your home.
In how much time will I get Free PSA Test report?
The Free PSA Test report is usually available within 6 hours after the sample reaches the laboratory.
Note: Time may vary based on your location.
Where can I see or get Free PSA Test results?
Reports can be accessed easily on the Metropolis Healthcare website or mobile app, sent directly via email or WhatsApp, or collected as a printed copy from your nearest Metropolis Lab.
Interpreting Free PSA Test Results
What Your Free PSA Test Results May Indicate
|
Parameter |
Normal Range |
Interpretation |
|
Total PSA |
≤4.0 ng/mL |
Normal PSA range; higher values suggest prostate issues |
|
Free PSA |
Variable |
Used to calculate the Free/Total PSA ratio |
|
Free/Total PSA Ratio |
>25% = Low risk 10–25% = Moderate risk <10% = High risk |
Lower ratios may indicate prostate cancer; higher ratios suggest benign causes |
Understanding Abnormal Free PSA Test Results by Parameter
|
% Free PSA |
50–59 yrs |
60–69 yrs |
≥70 yrs |
|
0–10% |
49.2% |
57.7% |
64.5% |
|
11–18% |
26.9% |
33.9% |
40.8% |
|
19–25% |
18.3% |
23.9% |
29.7% |
|
>25% |
9.1% |
12.2% |
15.8% |
A lower percentage of free PSA suggests a higher probability of prostate cancer, while a higher percentage indicates benign conditions like BPH.
How to Prepare for a Free PSA Test
To ensure accurate test results, follow these guidelines:
- Avoid digital rectal examination (DRE) or prostate ultrasound for 7 days before the test.
- Avoid ejaculation for at least 48 hours before testing.
- Stop high-dose biotin supplements (>5 mg/day) 8 hours before the test.
- No fasting is required.
- Inform your doctor about medications for prostate or hormonal treatment (e.g., finasteride).
How Is a Free PSA Test Done? (Step-by-Step Procedure)
The Free PSA Test is performed using a simple blood collection process:
- Preparation: A tourniquet is applied to your upper arm to make the veins visible.
- Cleaning: The puncture site is cleaned with antiseptic.
- Sample Collection: About 3 ml of blood is drawn into a gel vacutainer using a sterile needle.
- Completion: The needle is removed, and a small bandage is applied.
- Processing: The sample is analysed using Electrochemiluminescence Immunoassay (ECLIA) to measure Total and Free PSA levels.
Conditions That May Affect Free PSA Test Accuracy
Certain factors can influence PSA test results, such as:
- Recent prostate manipulation (biopsy, DRE, or ultrasound).
- Ejaculation within 48 hours before testing.
- Urinary tract infection or prostatitis.
- Medications like finasteride or dutasteride (can lower PSA levels).
- High-dose biotin supplements.
Diseases That a Free PSA Test Can Help Detect
- Prostate Cancer
- Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)
- Prostatitis (Prostate Inflammation)
- Prostate Enlargement
Free PSA Test Price in Different Cities
The cost of a Free PSA Test may vary depending on your location. Here's a table showing the approximate price range for the Free PSA Test at Metropolis Healthcare in major Indian cities:
|
City |
Approximate Cost (INR) |
|
₹ 1600 to ₹ 1850 |
|
|
₹ 1600 to ₹ 1850 |
|
|
₹ 1600 to ₹ 1850 |
|
|
₹ 1600 to ₹ 1850 |
The Free PSA Test cost may vary depending on the city and the specific tests included in the panel. However, Metropolis Healthcare offers competitive Free PSA Test prices across major cities in India.
References
- Thompson IM et al. (2004). Prevalence of prostate cancer among men with PSA ≤4.0 ng/mL. N Engl J Med, 350(22):2239–46.
- Stamey TA et al. (1987). Prostate-specific antigen as a serum marker for adenocarcinoma of the prostate. N Engl J Med, 317(15):909–16.
- Arch Pathol Lab Med (2017). Guidelines for prostate-specific antigen testing. Vol. 141, November.
- Claudia Schäfer, CIR, Penzberg 4486 (2015). Elecsys Reference Ranges for PSA Testing. Roche Diagnostics.
- Pack Insert, Metropolis Healthcare PSA-ECLIA Kit.
Tota PSA/Free PSA Ratio, Serum Price
Metropolis Healthcare is a leading diagnostics centre and pathology lab in India equipped with the latest state-of-the-art technologies that provides the Tota PSA/Free PSA Ratio, Serum with a clear pricing structure.
The Tota PSA/Free PSA Ratio, Serum Price in Mumbai is ₹ 1,800 .
We are committed to deliver accurate and quality results from the best labs in India with complete transparency regarding test cost and turnaround time. No matter where you are, we strive to offer patients high-quality service that is affordable and accessible.
Frequently Asked Questions
It measures unbound prostate-specific antigen and calculates the Free-to-Total PSA ratio to assess prostate cancer risk.
No, fasting is not required for this test.
A low Free PSA ratio (<10%) indicates a higher likelihood of prostate cancer.
Reports are available within 6 hours after the sample is processed.
Prostate manipulation, infections, ejaculation, and certain medications can alter PSA levels.
Yes, when used with Total PSA, it helps identify early signs of prostate cancer.
The test uses Electrochemiluminescence Immunoassay (ECLIA) for accurate results.
Inform your doctor about prostate medications; they may affect PSA levels.
No, it only involves a simple blood draw from your arm.
Yes, you can easily book it online or through the Metropolis Healthcare app for home sample collection.
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We offer a comprehensive range of 4000+ clinical laboratory tests and profiles, which are used for prediction, early detection, diagnostic screening, confirmation and/or monitoring of the disease.

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