PSA Level

[bdoug]

I am a 56 year old male who has undergone DRE's every year since 45 years of age. All normal.

This year as part of a new regime I had a PSA test done for the first time ever. It showed up to be 6.8.

I was referred to a urologist (no issue with that at all), but in the meantime I asked for a Free PSA test to be done, and it arrived back at 21.

Urologist performed a DRE and there was again nothing abnormal at all.

A biopsy has been suggested and scheduled, but to be honest, I'm wondering if i should ask for a further PSA test, since I understand now that alcohol, and sexual activity can cause significant variations in this PSA range.

Question is: Should I have a further test, or shpould I go ahead with the biopsy? reason for my reluctance for the biopsy are the horror stories i have heard about this procedure.

[Rumrunner]

Kevin, I've had a rather painful biopsy earlier in January-Feb no anastesia, however i spoke with another Dr. who assured me this time It will not be painful(oct-Nov) after speaking with him I do feel better about having the procedure and he also believes it was the Dr.'s choice at the time....

[bdoug]

Thanks Kevin, I guess my question really just begged the answer :-)
I'd be daft not to have this done, I know, - Its just without this PSA test, I'd have been balooning along as normal without a care in the world. Not so different I guess from many folks.

Is this biopsy as painful as I have heard??

Cheers,

Doug

[Kevin Pho, MD]

The PSA is elevated, and it is true that sexual activity can lead to variations in the PSA.

However, before attributing it to that cause, I would agree with the biopsy.  Cancer needs to be ruled out first before other causes are suspected.

Followup with your personal physician is essential.

This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Kevin, M.D.
kevinmd_