Question:

I am writing to inquire if there are other causes for high PSA level, other than cancer. Say bladder infection, ecoli etc. My husband is scheduled for a biopsy of his prostate, some people state that this is not necessary. His prostate is normal, however, his PSA levels are high and he had two screenings. Please advise.

Answer:

Most elevated PSA’s are not due to prostate cancer. PSA can be elevated in patients with the following conditions:

• BPH (benign prostatic hyperplasia or enlarged prostate) – the most common reason for an elevated psa
• Some acute urinary tract infections – those with severe urinary symptoms
• After injury, as in post prostate surgery

However, men with a ten year life expectancy who have an elevated PSA should have a prostate biopsy as about one third will have a potentially curable prostate cancer. Nowadays, almost 75% of men diagnosed with prostate cancer are diagnosed because their PSA is elevated. 

For more information:

Go to the Prostate Cancer health topic.