Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) Test

Laboratory Test

What is the test?

This is a blood test that measures the level of prostate specific antigen in men, as an indicator of the presence of cancer in the prostate gland. If this particular blood antigen is raised beyond a certain threshold, your physician may recommend additional diagnostic testing. As a preventive measure for early diagnosis and treatment, physicians typically recommend regular PSA testing for men beginning at age 50. For men with a family history of prostate cancer, your doctor may recommend that regular screening and PSA testing begin at a younger age.

How do I prepare?

There is no special preparation for PSA testing.

How is the test done?

The test for prostate specific antigen requires a needle stick, typically in the arm, to draw a sample of your blood for analysis.

How and when will I get my test results?

Lab test results are usually available either the same day or the following day. The results will be sent directly to your doctor, who will share them with you.

Where is the test performed?

You may go to any of Cayuga Medical Center’s five Laboratory sites. The locations are:  Cayuga Medical Center at 101 Dates Drive in Ithaca; the Cayuga Professional Building at 1301 Trumansburg Road, Ithaca; 5 Evergreen Street in Dryden; Convenient Care at Ithaca on Arrowwood Drive off Warren Road; and Convenient Care at Cortland on Route 281 and Commons Avenue.

If you have questions regarding lab testing, you can reach the Cayuga Medical Center Laboratory at (607) 274-4474.

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