The PSA blood test measures an antigen in the blood. An increase in the PSA in the blood can indicate prostate cancer. However, the PSA is also increased with inflammation of the prostate (prostatitis) and in case of enlargement of the prostate (benign prostate hypertrophy BPH). A BPH is by definition benign. There is therefore no prostate cancer (yet). PSA increases with age, but clear limits have been described for PSA in the blood.
What do we determine with the PSA blood test?
The PSA blood test is only performed on men, because women do not have a prostate. The PSA value shows whether there are any abnormalities in the prostate. PSA is a protein that is produced almost exclusively by the prostate cells. Good prostate function is necessary for the lubrication of sperm cells.PSA: Prostate Specific Antigen Blood Test
PSA occurs in the blood as free PSA (not bound) and complex PSA. That is PSA bound to a protein. In this blood test for PSA we measure the total amount of PSA. That's free PSA + complex PSA together. So a PSA blood test means a total PSA test in the blood. We can also determine free PSA, because this is sometimes more specific for the presence of prostate cancer. In men with prostate cancer, research has shown that there is less free PSA in the blood, compared to complex PSA. However, for preventive screening for prostate cancer, the total amount of PSA is also fine.A normal total PSA value is generally less than 4.0 µg / l (microgram per liter of blood). However, there are also people with prostate cancer and PSA between 2.5 µg / l and 4.0 µg / l. There are also men who do not have prostate cancer and have a PSA higher than 4.0 µg / l. In other words, the PSA blood test is not a diagnostic, but a screening test.
If the PSA value is higher than 10.0 µg / l, then the chance of prostate cancer more than 65%. You can only do additional research if your PSA is elevated. This is often a biopsy in which a piece of prostate tissue is removed with a needle. This piece of tissue is studied by the pathologist.
In the Netherlands there is no screening for PSA. In some other countries yes. This is due to the trade-off between the costs of screening and the gain in life expectancy.
Particularities?
The results of the PSA blood test usually take 48 hours.
€83,00
How does it work?
Professional testing
Self-tests do not always provide reliable and consistent results. That's why Labplusarts chooses to have the tests professionally administered at a testing location. We have made this process as simple as possible for you.
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Find the test that suits you
Information on various health topics and a clear overview of our extensive test offerings. Through the website, you can easily determine which test may be relevant for you. Do you need assistance in making a choice or would you like to customize your own package? Feel free to contact us.
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Choose a testing location
We conduct tests at 350+ locations across the Netherlands, ensuring there is always a location near you. During the ordering process, you can easily select your preferred testing location, and after payment, you can schedule an appointment. Choose where and when it suits you.
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Get tested
During your appointment, one of our medical professionals will collect your sample. Subsequently, your sample will be examined in the laboratory.
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Truly reliable results with understandable explanations
Because your sample is taken professionally, the results are consistent. Your test results are evaluated by one of our own doctors and accompanied by thorough advice. We believe it's important that you understand what the results mean for you. We ensure this by providing explanations about the test and the significance of your values.
There is always a location near you
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83,00
When to choose the PSA blood test?
Only choose the PSA blood test for:- Urinary complaints such as reduced flow or frequent urination of small amounts
- Men aged 40 and over with urinary complaints