Elevated PSA Treatment in Houston, TX
What is a PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) Level?
Prostate-specific antigen, or PSA, is a protein produced by the prostate gland. It is commonly used as a marker to screen for prostate cancer and to monitor the health of the prostate. PSA is typically found in small amounts in the blood but if there is an issue with the prostate like infection, inflammation, or cancer, your PSA levels can rise.
Trust Dr. Travis Green, a leading urologist in Houston, to provide personalized, effective solutions. Take control of your prostate health and peace of mind. Schedule an appointment at our urology clinic in Houston, TX by calling (281) 957-9058.
How is my PSA Tested?
A simple blood test measures PSA levels. This test is called a PSA blood test.
Dr. Green will analyze the results to determine if your PSA level falls within the normal range, which is typically considered to be 0-4 nanograms per milliliter (ng/mL).
What is a High PSA Level?
Elevated PSA levels can be a source of concern for many men. An elevated PSA level doesn’t necessarily indicate cancer, but it does warrant further investigation and discussion with Dr. Green.
There is still some debate about a normal PSA level. Typically, a level of 4.0 ng/mL or higher would lead to more testing. However, normal levels completely depend upon the patient. Dr. Green will consider other issues together with the PSA level to decide whether to perform further testing.
Next Steps
If your PSA test is showing abnormal PSA levels, you may need other tests. Your age, general health, family history, and health history factor into the decision.
There are several options for evaluating a high PSA. The next step recommended by Dr. Green may include continued observation of serial PSA values, prostate MRI, or prostate biopsy. An MRI can be used to evaluate whether there are any suspicious spots or lesions in the prostate that could be concerning for cancer. During a prostate biopsy, several small samples are taken from the prostate with a needle to be analyzed for cancer.
Other tests may include:
- Another PSA test, especially if levels are low or you show no symptoms
- A urine test
- A digital rectal exam (DRE) to feel your prostate for lumps or anything unusual
- A prostate biopsy
- Prostate MRI
- More blood tests (Iso PSA or 4Kscore®)
Causes of a High PSA
A high PSA level may be caused by:
- Prostate cancer
- Inflammation of the prostate gland, often caused by infection (prostatitis)
- Recent ejaculation
- Strenuous physical activity
- An enlarged prostate (BPH) (benign prostatic hyperplasia)
- Taking certain medicines
- Other common prostate problems
Do I Have Cancer?
A high PSA does not necessarily mean you have cancer. However it does often mean that we should observe closer.
Dr. Green will look at two factors related to your PSA after additional testing:
- Your PSA level: A higher level means a higher risk of prostate cancer
- A continuous rise: PSA levels that continue to rise after two or more tests may mean you have cancer
Two men can even have the same PSA levels but different risks of prostate cancer. And a high PSA level may reflect prostate problems that aren’t cancer.
Risk Factors for Prostate Cancer
As you test your PSA levels, it is important to evaluate your risk for prostate cancer.
You may be at higher risk for prostate cancer if you:
- Are age 50 or older
- Are of African-American or Caribbean descent
- Have a family history of prostate cancer
- Have certain genetic changes that make it more likely prostate cancer will develop
Getting your PSA level tested is a great way to stay educated about your risk of developing prostate cancer.
Steps Moving Forward
After a PSA test, it is crucial to:
- Work closely with Dr. Green
- Determine your PSA level
- Act accordingly if your PSA level is high
- Develop an appropriate management plan
- Attend regular check-ups
- Maintain a healthy lifestyle
- Focus on early detection
Schedule a PSA Testing Consultation in Houston, TX
Your well-being is our priority at Green Urology. Dr. Travis Green and our dedicated team are here to support you every step of the way. Request an appointment at our urology clinic in Houston, TX by filling out our secure form.
