Prostate Specific Antigen Test Care
Learn what care is required for the Prostate Specific Antigen Test procedure. Find out what you need to do prior to the procedure, how long it will take, if you will be required to stay in the hospital and what the postoperative care is.
Alternate Names for Prostate Specific Antigen Test:
PSA test
Learn
- Overview
- What It Is
- Reasons For
- Complications
- What to Expect
- Results
- When to Call a Doctor
Prostate Specific Antigen Test Details
Alternate Names for Prostate Specific Antigen Test:
PSA test
What to Expect
Prior to Test
- Ejaculation can cause PSA levels to rise. Avoid sexual activity for 2-3 days before testing.
-
Some procedures can elevate PSA levels. Schedule your PSA test several weeks after any of these:
- Any prostate surgery (eg, TURP )
- Prostate biopsy
- Prostate massage
- Wait several weeks after successful treatment of prostate infections.
-
Some medicines can lower PSA levels. Tell your doctor if you are taking:
- Finasteride (eg, Propecia, Proscar)
- Dutasteride (eg, Avodart)
You will roll up your sleeve. An elastic band will be wrapped around your upper arm. An area on your arm will be cleaned with alcohol. The needle will then be inserted into your arm. A small amount of blood will be drawn into a tube. The needle will be removed. Pressure will be applied to the puncture site. A small bandage may be placed on the site. Your blood will be sent to a lab for testing.
After TestYou will be able to leave after the test is done.
How Long Will It Take?Drawing blood takes only a few minutes.
Will It Hurt?It may be uncomfortable when the needle pierces your skin.
Learn
 Complications Learn about possible complications and what might increase the risk of them. |
||
 What to Expect Find out how long it will take, what they will be doing and what to expect afterwards. |
 Results What are the next steps and other possible tests needed after you have received the results. |
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implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A
MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment
or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Copyright ©2013 EBSCO Publishing All rights
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