Overview
Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) is a protein produced by both cancerous and noncancerous tissue in the prostate gland. PSA is most often found in semen, which is also produced in the prostate. However, small amounts of PSA ordinarily circulate in the blood. Elevated levels of PSA may indicate prostate cancer, but other conditions, such as an enlarged or inflamed prostate, can also increase PSA levels.
Noncancerous causes of a high PSA levels
Besides prostate cancer, other factors might contribute to elevated PSA levels, including:
Age
A person’s PSA levels tend to increase with age. This normal rise may be caused by the growth of benign, prostatic tissue. Men who are older than 50 should speak with their doctor about their risk of developing prostate cancer.
Prostatitis (prostate inflammation)
Prostatitis is swelling and inflammation of the prostate gland. This condition may occur due to bacteria that leaks into the prostate gland from the urinary tract and may increase PSA levels. Symptoms of prostatitis may include:
- Difficulty and pain when urinating
- Pressure in the rectum
- Lower back or abdominal pain
Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)
Benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH), also known as enlarged prostate, is common in older men and can raise PSA levels. Common symptoms include:
- Difficulty initiating urination
- Weak urine output
- Urgent need to urinate
- Inability to empty bladder completely
Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)
UTI’s can also cause PSA levels to rise. A urinary tract infection (UTI) is an infection in any part of the urinary system, including the kidneys, ureters, bladder and urethra. Most infections involve the lower urinary tract, which consists of the bladder and the urethra. UTIs can cause pain during urination, blood in the urine, or an inability to urinate.
Medical procedures
Any procedure that causes temporary bruising or trauma to the groin can affect PSA levels. This can include the insertion of any type of instrument, such as a surgical scope, into the bladder.
Symptoms of prostate cancer
Prostate cancer may not cause symptoms at all. However, symptoms may include:
- Painful ejaculation
- Blood in the semen or urine
- A weak flow of urine
- Problems urinating
- Pain in the hip, pelvis, lower back, or thigh
- A burning sensation when urinating
Diagnosis
Numerous conditions can lead to elevated PSA levels. If you are diagnosed with high PSA, there is no need to assume the worst. Your physician will administer a variety of tests to determine the exact cause of your high PSA and develop a treatment plan if necessary.
Treatment
Elevated PSA levels can mean many things, so it is important to talk to your doctor. Your doctor will create a treatment plan based on your health history and symptoms. This may include lifestyle changes or medication.
