A prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test is a blood test that measures the level of PSA in the blood. PSA is a protein produced by the prostate gland. A high level of PSA can be a sign of prostate cancer, but it can also be caused by other conditions, such as prostatitis (inflammation of the prostate gland) or benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH, an enlarged prostate gland). The PSA test is not a perfect test. It can sometimes give false-positive results, meaning that the test indicates that prostate cancer is present when it is not. False-positive results can lead to unnecessary biopsies and treatment. The PSA test can also give false-negative results, meaning that the test indicates that prostate cancer is not present when it is. False-negative results can lead to delayed diagnosis and treatment of prostate cancer. The PSA test is usually recommended for men over the age of 50. Men with a family history of prostate cancer or other risk factors for prostate cancer may be tested at an earlier age. The PSA test is a simple and painless procedure that is usually performed in a doctor's office or a laboratory. The patient will need to have a blood sample drawn from a vein in their arm. The results of the test are usually available within a few days. If you have a high PSA level, your doctor may recommend further testing, such as a prostate biopsy. A prostate biopsy is a procedure in which a small sample of tissue is taken from the prostate gland and examined under a microscope. The decision of whether or not to have a prostate biopsy is a personal one. You should talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of the test. Here are some of the reasons why your doctor might order a PSA test: You are over the age of 50. You have a family history of prostate cancer. You have other risk factors for prostate cancer, such as being African American or having a history of prostatitis. You have symptoms of prostate cancer, such as difficulty urinating or pain in the back or pelvis. If you have a PSA test, it is important to follow your doctor's instructions. This may include avoiding strenuous activity and drinking plenty of fluids.