Does chronic prostatitis raise PSA?

PSA is produced by prostate cells. A raised result is not specific to cancer: prostatitis, a urinary infection, recent irritation, and benign prostate enlargement can all influence it. A single result therefore needs context. Your clinician may ask about pelvic discomfort, painful urination, urinary urgency, or difficulty passing urine, and may examine you before deciding what the result means.

Arrange a GP consultation to review the result alongside your symptoms, medicines and previous PSA results. The clinician may recommend treating an active infection or inflammation first and repeating the test after an appropriate interval. Do not start antibiotic treatment simply to lower PSA; antibiotics are useful when a bacterial infection is suspected or confirmed.

Seek prompt medical help if you cannot pass urine, develop fever or chills with urinary symptoms, or feel suddenly very unwell. These features can indicate an acute urinary problem that needs assessment. Contact a clinician about persistent pelvic pain, painful urination, frequent urination, or urinary urgency even when symptoms are mild.

Ask what may have affected your PSA, whether the test should be repeated, and which symptoms would change the plan. You can also ask whether a GP consultation, urine testing, prostate examination, or referral is appropriate for your situation.