To book or ask a question, call 8872524007.
What the PSA test checks
PSA is a protein that helps keep semen fluid. Small amounts pass into the blood normally. The amount rises when the prostate is larger, inflamed, irritated or, sometimes, affected by cancer.
The standard test reports total PSA in ng/mL. If total PSA falls in a borderline zone, your doctor may ask for free PSA as well; the share of free PSA helps decide whether further checks are needed.
Why your doctor may order it
- slow stream, getting up at night to pass urine, or feeling the bladder isn't empty;
- a prostate that felt enlarged on examination;
- a shared decision about prostate cancer screening, usually from age 50, or earlier with a family history;
- follow-up after prostate treatment, where the trend over time matters most.
Screening with PSA has benefits and drawbacks, including false alarms. It's worth talking it through with your doctor before the test.
How to prepare
No fasting is needed, but several things can raise PSA for a short time:
- ejaculation in the previous 48 hours;
- cycling, horse or motorbike riding for long distances in the previous 48 hours;
- a urine infection, or a catheter, prostate examination or biopsy in recent days or weeks.
Medicines for an enlarged prostate such as finasteride or dutasteride roughly halve the PSA. Don't stop them; just tell us and your doctor, who adjusts the reading.
Sample type and report time
One serum sample from the arm, at any time of day. The sample is collected at Alpha Laboratory and processed in-house or at a partner reference laboratory, depending on the test. The report usually takes 1–3 working days; we'll tell you the expected date when you book.
Men who find travel difficult can book home sample collection on 8872524007.
Understanding your results
Many labs use 4.0 ng/mL as a general cut-off for total PSA, and normal values creep up with age. The range printed on your report is the one that applies; ranges vary by lab and method.
A higher PSA can be associated with an enlarged prostate (very common after 50), prostatitis, a urine infection, recent activity from the list above, or prostate cancer. A normal PSA doesn't rule out every problem either. Your doctor reads the result with your symptoms, examination, age and earlier values, and may simply repeat it in a few weeks.
FAQ
At what age should men get a PSA test?
Many guidelines suggest discussing it with a doctor from about 50, or from 40 to 45 with a father or brother who had prostate cancer.
Can a urine infection raise PSA?
Yes, often a lot. Doctors usually wait several weeks after treatment of the infection before repeating the test.
Where can I find a PSA test near me in Banur?
If you're searching for a PSA test near me, our lab is on M.C. Road, Banur, open daily. Home collection covers Banur and nearby villages.
Is a high PSA always cancer?
No. Most raised PSA results in older men come from an enlarged or inflamed prostate. Further tests decide what's going on.
Book at Alpha Laboratory
Book your PSA test on 8872524007 or WhatsApp us. Bring your last PSA report if you have one. Hours and directions are on the contact page.