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Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test

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Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) is a substance released into the blood by the prostate, which is part of the male reproductive system. A PSA test measures the amount of prostate-specific antigen in the blood.

Low amounts of PSA may be found in the blood of healthy people. The amount of PSA in the blood normally increases as the prostate enlarges with age. It is also increased by ejaculation, by inflammation of the prostate gland (prostatitis), and by prostate cancer.

Current as of: October 25, 2023

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

Current as of: October 25, 2023

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

The Health Encyclopedia contains general health information. Not all treatments or services described are covered benefits for Kaiser Permanente members or offered as services by Kaiser Permanente. For a list of covered benefits, please refer to your Evidence of Coverage or Summary Plan Description. For recommended treatments, please consult with your health care provider.