Prostate Cancer and Elevated PSA

What is the Connection Between Elevated PSA and Prostate Cancer?

Understanding the connection between elevated PSA levels and prostate cancer is crucial for managing your prostate health. Elevated PSA and prostate cancer are not always synonymous, but they do indicate that further investigation is needed. PSA, or prostate-specific antigen, is a protein produced by both normal and cancerous cells in your prostate. When you get a PSA test, we measure this protein’s level in your blood. Typically, low levels are normal, but when the levels are elevated, it can be a sign that something isn’t right with your prostate.

 

What Causes Elevated PSA Levels?

There are several reasons why PSA levels may be high. Apart from prostate cancer, conditions like benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), which is a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate. Prostatitis, which is an inflammation of the prostate, can also raise PSA levels. Even recent activities like vigorous exercise, a UTI, or ejaculation can temporarily increase your PSA levels.

 

When PSA Levels Are High

 If your PSA levels are elevated, it’s important not to panic. This result simply means we need to look a little closer. Other scans may be performed, or we may suggest a biopsy where a small sample of the prostate tissue is taken for examination. It’s just one piece of the puzzle. We also consider factors like age, family history, and any symptoms you may be experiencing. The goal of monitoring PSA levels is to detect prostate cancer early when it is most treatable.

 

If PSA results are abnormally high, your doctor will conduct further testing to determine the cause. Depending on their findings:

• Non-cancerous conditions can be treated
• A second PSA test may be repeated to rule out skewed results
• A digital rectal exam may be performed
• A prostate biopsy may be ordered if the rectal exam is abnormal
• Your doctor will discuss treatment options if prostate cancer is confirmed