What should you know about elevated PSA causes?

PSA is a protein made by prostate cells. A larger prostate can release more of it, particularly with benign prostate enlargement. Irritation or infection of the prostate may also raise the result. Ejaculation, cycling, urinary retention, catheter use, or a recent prostate examination can affect timing and interpretation. A raised value can occur with prostate cancer, but many raised results have a non-cancerous explanation. The level, change over time, age, symptoms, medicines, and examination findings are considered together.

A clinician may review the test conditions, medicines, urinary symptoms, and any recent infection or procedure. They may repeat the PSA under suitable conditions and examine the prostate. Further assessment can include a [PSA Test](/treatments/cancer-screening/psa-test/), [MRI Scan](/treatments/diagnostics-and-staging/mri-scan/), or [Biopsy](/treatments/diagnostics-and-staging/biopsy/). A biopsy is considered when the overall assessment suggests that tissue sampling would clarify the diagnosis.

Arrange medical review for a new elevated result, especially if you have urinary difficulty, blood in urine or semen, pelvic pain, fever, or a strong family history of prostate cancer. Seek urgent help for inability to pass urine, fever with severe pelvic pain, confusion, or feeling suddenly very unwell, because infection or urinary blockage may need prompt treatment.

Ask what may have influenced the result, whether it should be repeated, how your earlier results compare, and which symptoms require urgent contact. You can also ask what would make imaging or biopsy appropriate and how medicines for urinary symptoms might affect interpretation.