Elevated PSA

Tricounty Urology -  - Urology

Tricounty Urology

Urology located in Uniontown, PA & Waynesburg, PA

Although elevated prostate-specific antigen (PSA) is often linked to men with prostate cancer, several benign conditions can cause your PSA levels to rise. Tricounty Urology in Uniontown and Waynesburg, Pennsylvania, helps patients determine the cause of their elevated PSA and the best options for restoring their health. The practice is led by a team of fellowship-trained physicians, including Sunil Rayan, MD, and Mukul Patil, MD, and specializes in comprehensive, personalized patient care. To speak with a doctor about your elevated PSA, call the nearest office, or request an appointment online today.

Elevated PSA Q & A

What is PSA?

Your prostate gland naturally produces a protein known as the prostate-specific antigen (PSA). A PSA test measures the levels of PSA in your blood. PSA tests are often used to screen for prostate cancer. Although high levels of PSA can be caused by prostate cancer, they’re also caused by some noncancerous conditions as well. 

Two of the most common causes of elevated PSA levels are benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and prostatitis, or an inflamed prostate. BPH and prostate enlargement are common conditions that frequently affect men as they age. Prostatitis is often caused by bacteria and nerve damage to the lower urinary tract. 

If your test results reveal elevated PSA levels, Tricounty Urology provides several in-office tests to accurately diagnose your condition. 

How do I know if I have prostate cancer?

A PSA test is one of the first tests used to screen for prostate cancer. Although a PSA test can help detect rising levels of PSA, it can’t provide a definite diagnosis. If you experience rising PSA levels or concerning symptoms accompanying your elevated PSA levels, your doctor performs additional testing to confirm or rule out prostate cancer. 

Tricounty Urology provides state-of-the-art imaging tests and noninvasive urine tests (SelectMDx and ExoDxTM) to help determine the need for a biopsy. If you require a biopsy, your doctor uses a thin needle to take a small sample of cells from your prostate to check for the presence of cancer. 

If prostate cancer is discovered, your doctor uses advanced diagnostics to further evaluate your prostate cancer and plan your treatment.  

What is genomic testing?

Genomic testing is an advanced diagnostic that gives you and your doctor essential information on whether a biopsy is needed, or how your cancer might behave. Genomic testing can help reveal how slowly or aggressively your cancer may grow, as well as the chances of your prostate cancer spreading. 

Tricounty Urology provides state-of-the-art imaging tests and noninvasive urine tests (SelectMDx and ExoDxTM) to help determine the need for a biopsy. Your doctor may also perform genomic testing using a tissue sample from your prostate. They use your results to help determine your risks and the best treatment options for your condition. Genomic testing can help you avoid over-treatment, under-treatment, and unnecessary side effects. 

To learn more about elevated PSA and PSA testing, call Tricounty Urology or book an appointment online today.