Test Results For:
Free PSA (FPSA)
Test Overview
- Test Name
-
Free PSA (FPSA)
- Test Code
- FPSA
Short Description
Free PSA (FPSA)
Test Name
Free PSA (FPSA)
Test Code
FPSA
Category
Immunoassay
TAT
Main Lab:
4
Hour(s)
Family Site:
<4hrs, <5hrs
Specimen(s)
1 x Venous blood - 5 mL Tube - Gold - SST-Serum Separator Tube
Specimen Type
SST-Serum Separator Tube
Specimen Format
Tube
Specimen Colour
Gold
Specimen Volume
5 mL
Sampling Order
2
Origin
Venous blood
Collection Time after baseline
-
Transport Temperature
15-25°C
Accepted Other Specimens
Serum
TAT
Main Lab:
4
Hour(s)
Family Site:
<4hrs, <5hrs
Test Stability
Room Temp:
8 Hour(s)
2–8°C:
5 Day(s)
Methodology
-
Specimen Type
SST-Serum Separator Tube
Other Type of Specimen Accepted
Serum
Delay before pre-treatment
3
Transport temperature
15-25°C
Test stability at room temperature
8 Hour(s)
Test stability at 2–8°C
5 Day(s)
Haemolysis interference
No
Clinical Interest
Free PSA refers to PSA that is not bound to proteins in the blood. This test measures the percentage of total PSA that is unbound.
The percentage of free PSA can help distinguish potential prostate cancer from benign conditions such as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and prostatitis.
A low percentage of free PSA (less than 10%) is associated with a higher probability of prostate cancer and may justify a biopsy.
A high level of free PSA (over 25%) indicates a benign condition.
In cases where the total PSA level is in the 'grey zone ’ (between 4 and 10 ng/ml), the free PSA assay is useful in deciding whether a prostate biopsy is indicated.
PSA levels vary according to the age of the patient and can be difficult to interpret. Total PSA levels tend to increase with age, even in the absence of cancer. The ratio of free PSA to total PSA further refines the results and helps clinicians to make more informed decisions.
Clinical Information Required
-
Patient Collection Note
It is recommended to obtain specimens for PSA testing prior to procedures involving manipulation of the prostate.
LOINC Code
113-1, 83113-1
Outwork
No