How effective is PSA test for raised PSA?

PSA is produced by prostate tissue. The level can rise for reasons including benign prostate enlargement, inflammation, infection, recent procedures or ejaculation, as well as prostate cancer. The result is interpreted with age, symptoms, examination findings, medicines and changes over time.

Repeating the blood test may help clarify whether the result remains raised, but the next step is individual. A clinician may discuss urine testing, prostate imaging or referral for further assessment. A biopsy is a separate procedure and is not automatically required after every raised result.

Arrange a review with the clinician who requested the test and bring a list of medicines, recent urinary symptoms, infections and prostate procedures. Ask whether anything could have temporarily affected the result and when it should be repeated.

Follow the agreed plan rather than comparing one value with another person’s result. Report difficulty passing urine, blood in urine or semen, pelvic discomfort, or new bone pain, because these details help decide the urgency and type of assessment.

Seek urgent medical help if you cannot pass urine, have severe lower abdominal pain, fever with urinary symptoms, or feel acutely unwell. These problems can signal urinary blockage or infection and need prompt treatment, regardless of the PSA result.

What other causes could explain my raised PSA? Should the test be repeated, and how should I prepare? Do my examination and symptoms suggest imaging or a specialist review? What would a biopsy involve if it becomes appropriate?