Test Directory

Test Code
FPSAG
Test Name
PSA, Free AND Total
CPT Codes
84153, 84154
Included Tests
  • Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA), Total
  • PSA, Free
  • PSA, % Free
Expected Turnaround Time
1 day
Clinical Utility
Testing is best utilized as a follow up on patients previously determined to have Total PSA values in the range of 4.00-10.00 ng/mL. In this range, the measurement of Free PSA and the calculation of a % Free PSA value are helpful in the discrimination of prostate cancer from benign disease.
Specimen and Container Info

Specimen Type: Serum

Preferred Collection Container: Gold Top, Serum Separator

Alternate Collection Container: Red Top, Separator

Minimum Acceptable Volume: 0.8 mL

Processing and Submission Instructions

Separator tubes: Contains clot activator and gel for separating serum from cells, but not anticoagulant. Separate serum from cells as soon as the clot has formed (30 minutes). If specimen is centrifuged before clotting is complete, a fibrin clot will form on top of the cell. This may cause the gel barrier to not be intact and could cause improper separation of serum and cells, possibly affecting test results.

Transport Instructions

Transport to the laboratory refrigerated.

Stability Requirements

Refrigerated

PSA, Free

  • 24 hours

PSA, Total

  • 7 days

Frozen

PSA, Free

  • 1 month

PSA, Total

  • 1 month
Methodology
Chemiluminescent Immunoassay
Reference Intervals
Performing Location
Roble Road Core Laboratory
Testing Schedule
Routine, daily