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Prostate (PSA) test
Blood draw
Hydrate
Results 24 hrs
£120
Prostate (PSA) test
Why would I take this test?
The prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test may help in the detection of prostate cancer. The PSA test itself is not always accurate as PSA levels can vary depending on age, your lifestyle and other health conditions.
Your PSA level can be high for other reasons and is not guaranteed to find all forms of prostate cancer. The PSA test is usually done as part of a panel of tests to check for cancer or other diagnoses. If you decide to take this test, it is highly recommended that you do this under the guidance of your GP. Your doctor will then be able to take you through the results and recommend any next steps.
How a test is done?
Our phlebotomist will tie a rubber band to your upper arm to make the veins more visible. They will swab to clean the arm, then a sterile needle attached to a tube is gently inserted into the vein and the blood is drawn into a vial (or vials if more than one test has been requested). Only one needle is used regardless of the number of tests or vials requested. The needle is removed, a plaster applied, and it’s done. You might get a small bruise around the needle mark.
Please wear loose clothing (for easy access to your arm) and let us know a preferred arm.
You can continue to take regular medication but check with your doctor whether any of your medications may affect test results.
It's easier to draw blood when:
you are hydrated – please drink some water, especially in hot weather and for morning blood draws
you are warm – please keep warm before the test
Fasting is not required
A non-fasting test means:
you can eat and drink as normal before the test
it’s advised not to drink alcohol before the test
you can continue to take regular medication but check with your doctor whether any of your medications may affect test results
Can I have someone with me?
Of course, if that makes you more comfortable, you may have a friend or relative accompany you during a blood test.
When will I get my results?
Results returned in 24 hours
What can this test detect?
Total prostate specific antigen
Free prostate specific antigen
Free total ratio
How do I get my results?
The certified laboratory report is emailed to us, and we can either:
email directly to you
email directly to you and/or to your GP. We will need your written consent to share any test results, but we will discuss this with you when you book your appointment
give it to you in person at the clinic