What should you know about biochemical recurrence of prostate cancer?

It is identified from the PSA result and its change over time, interpreted in light of the treatment you previously received. It does not automatically mean symptoms will develop or that the cancer is visible elsewhere.

Expected PSA patterns differ after prostate removal surgery and radiotherapy because radiotherapy leaves prostate tissue in place. Your clinician reviews repeated measurements, how quickly PSA changes, the original tumour features, time since treatment and current health rather than relying on a single isolated result.

Imaging may be offered to look for disease in the prostate area, lymph nodes, bones or other sites. A scan can be clear when the amount of cancer is too small to detect, so PSA monitoring and later reassessment may still be appropriate.

Keep scheduled PSA tests and oncology appointments so the trend can be assessed consistently. Bring details of your original operation, radiotherapy, hormone treatment and pathology if you are seeing a new team. Mention urinary changes, bone pain, weight loss and medicines that could affect clinical decisions.

Options depend on where recurrence is suspected and what treatment was given before. They may include observation with repeat testing, treatment directed at the prostate area, hormone-based systemic therapy, radiation aimed at detected sites or other specialist approaches. The team should explain whether the aim is long-term control, delaying progression or relieving symptoms.

A PSA rise usually does not require emergency care by itself. Contact your team promptly for new persistent bone pain, worsening difficulty passing urine, blood in the urine, unexplained weakness or marked weight loss.

Seek urgent assessment if you cannot pass urine, develop new leg weakness or numbness, lose bladder or bowel control, or have severe back pain with neurological symptoms. These warning signs require rapid evaluation regardless of the latest PSA value.

Ask what the PSA pattern means after your specific treatment, whether the result should be repeated, which imaging could add useful information and how soon a decision is needed. Discuss the expected benefits and burdens of monitoring versus treatment, including effects on urinary, sexual, bone and general health.