New England · Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) Total Test
Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) Total Test in Massachusetts
Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) Total Test is a laboratory test you can request directly. This blood test measures the total amount of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) in your blood. It is commonly used to screen for prostate problems, including cancer.
Lab requirements in Massachusetts
Here is what you need before ordering and completing the Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) Total Test in MA. Review each item and confirm the details with the collection lab.
- Physician's order
- Included. A physician's order is required for lab testing and is provided for you by our partner's physicians — no referral from your own doctor is needed.
- Fasting
- Some tests require fasting or avoiding certain foods or drinks beforehand. You will be informed when you order — confirm the details with the collection lab.
- Preparation
- Preparation instructions can vary, so follow the specific directions provided by the collection lab. In general, no special preparation is needed, but you should confirm any requirements…
- Sample & visit
- A blood and/or urine sample is collected; the visit usually takes about 10 minutes.
- Identification
- Bring the lab requisition form from your account. The collection lab may also ask for a government-issued photo ID.
- Turnaround
- 1-3 business days
- Availability
- Our partner lab does not serve ND, RI, NY, NJ, MD or HI. Confirm availability for your location with the collection lab.
Before you go
- Order your test before visiting a lab, then use the requisition form in your account.
- Print the requisition form, or fax it to the lab directly from your account.
- No scheduling is needed — visit the collection lab during its normal business hours.
- A blood and/or urine sample is collected; the visit usually takes about 10 minutes.
- Bring a government-issued photo ID in case the lab requests it.
- Results are posted to your secure account within 1–3 business days.
Requirements are summarized from our partner lab's published policies. Preparation and availability can change — confirm current instructions with the collection lab before your visit.
What this test is
The PSA total test quantifies the level of prostate-specific antigen, a protein produced by the prostate gland. It is often used as a tumor marker to help detect prostate cancer early and to monitor treatment response.
What it measures
- Total PSA — Reflects the overall level of prostate-specific antigen in the blood.
What the test involves
A healthcare professional collects a small sample of blood from a vein in your arm using a standard blood draw. The sample is then sent to a laboratory for analysis.
Why it is often ordered
A clinician may order a PSA test to screen for prostate cancer, especially in men with risk factors, or to evaluate symptoms such as difficulty urinating. It is also used to monitor men who have been treated for prostate cancer.
Preparation
Preparation instructions can vary, so follow the specific directions provided by the collection lab. In general, no special preparation is needed, but you should confirm any requirements with the lab.
How results are reported
Results are typically reported as a numerical value in nanograms per milliliter (ng/mL). Reference ranges can differ between laboratories, so your results should be interpreted in the context of the lab's provided range and your healthcare provider's assessment.
Before you go
- Whether any medications or recent activities might affect your PSA level.
- If there are specific preparation instructions you need to follow.
- How and when you will receive your test results.
Cities
Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) Total Test in Massachusetts communities
Choose your city for local context and to order this test.