Six Causes of a High PSA Besides Prostate Cancer

Discover six non-cancerous causes of elevated PSA levels. Explore insights into accurate diagnosis and management beyond prostate cancer in our informative post.

A high PSA level doesn't always indicate prostate cancer. In this blog post, we'll explore six potential causes of elevated PSA levels besides cancer. Understanding these factors is crucial for accurate diagnosis and appropriate management. Let's delve into the complexities of PSA interpretation together.

Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH): Enlargement of the prostate, a common condition in older men, can elevate PSA levels. BPH is non-cancerous but may require management to alleviate urinary symptoms.
Prostatitis: Inflammation or infection of the prostate gland can lead to elevated PSA levels. Prostatitis may be acute or chronic and requires appropriate treatment to resolve.
Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): UTIs can cause temporary elevations in PSA levels due to inflammation in the urinary tract. Treating the infection typically resolves the elevated PSA.
Recent Ejaculation: Ejaculation, particularly close to the time of PSA testing, can transiently elevate PSA levels. It's advisable to avoid sexual activity before PSA testing for accurate results.
Prostate Manipulation: Procedures such as prostate biopsy or digital rectal examination (DRE) can cause temporary increases in PSA levels due to tissue manipulation. PSA testing should be deferred for several weeks after these procedures.
Age and Race: PSA levels tend to increase with age and may be higher in certain racial or ethnic groups. Understanding age-related and demographic variations in PSA levels is essential for accurate interpretation.

While a high PSA level can be concerning, it doesn't always indicate prostate cancer. By considering other potential causes, such as BPH, prostatitis, UTIs, recent ejaculation, prostate manipulation, age, and race, healthcare providers can make more informed decisions regarding further evaluation and management. Understanding the complexities of PSA interpretation is crucial for ensuring accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

To learn more about PSA testing and interpreting results or to schedule a consultation, contact us today.