A prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test measures the amount of prostate-specific antigen in the blood. PSA is released into a man's blood by his prostate gland. Healthy men have low amounts of PSA in the blood. The amount of PSA in the blood normally increases as a man's prostate enlarges with age. PSA may increase because of inflammation of the prostate gland (prostatitis) or prostate cancer. An injury, a digital rectal exam, or sexual activity (ejaculation) may also briefly raise PSA levels.
Providence Health & Services is committed to providing high quality health care programs throughout Oregon, and our laboratory services are no exception. Operating 24 hours a day, our fully accredited labs process more than 5 million diagnostic tests annually statewide. With experienced protocols, the latest technology and skilled medical staff, you can trust us to quickly and accurately deliver the results you need.