What is PSA and when should men get it tested?
PSA is a prostate-specific protein used to screen for prostate health. Baseline before age 50 and before TRT initiation; trend (velocity) matters more than any single value.
Full answer
Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) is a glycoprotein produced by prostate epithelial cells. It rises with prostate volume, inflammation, and malignancy. PSA is the standard prostate screening anchor, particularly relevant when considering testosterone optimization. oMeds provider review requires baseline PSA before TRT initiation in men over 40 and re-checks on recalibration cadence. Interpretation focuses on PSA velocity (year-over-year change) and PSA density, not just the absolute value. Modest, transient PSA rises with TRT are common; abrupt velocity changes require urology referral regardless of absolute value.
Educational. Not a substitute for individualized provider review.
- PSA — Primary source · oMeds
- Reviewed by Dr. Laura Purdy, MD, MBA · Clinical Director, oMeds · Last reviewed 2026-05-29