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Urology (Expert Forum)
variable psa tests
Answered by
Kevin Pho, MD - Internal Medicine
Kevin, M.D.
Boston - MA
Questions in the Urology forum are answered by Dr. Stephen Liroff, affiliated with the Henry Ford Hospital. Topics covered include benign prostate disease, penis curvature, cystisis, kidney stones, pediatric urology, prostate, sexual dysfunction, urinary tract infections (UTI), and urological cancers.
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variable psa tests
by jslide1, Mar 05, 2006 12:00AM
I am a 54 year old male, and have been treated for BPH symptoms for over 10 years. My psa numbers have always been low until recently. beginning last July they begain to fluctuate. The dates and test results are as follows:
July 2004 0.9
July 2005 6.5
Aug. 2005 4.12
Oct. 2005 2.5
Mar. 2006 4.07
Before this last test I was treated with antiboitics for a UTI within two weeks of this test. My urologist has suggested that I repeat the test in two months, and have a biopsy if the number is above 3.5. I have never been given any indication that I have been tested for any "free psa"
I am a bit concerned, aand am wondering if I should just go ahead and have a biopsy now--Since I am relatively young, I want to have the best outcome possible.
July 2004 0.9
July 2005 6.5
Aug. 2005 4.12
Oct. 2005 2.5
Mar. 2006 4.07
Before this last test I was treated with antiboitics for a UTI within two weeks of this test. My urologist has suggested that I repeat the test in two months, and have a biopsy if the number is above 3.5. I have never been given any indication that I have been tested for any "free psa"
I am a bit concerned, aand am wondering if I should just go ahead and have a biopsy now--Since I am relatively young, I want to have the best outcome possible.
Doctor's Answer
by Kevin Pho, MD, Mar 05, 2006 12:00AM
, Mar 05, 2006 12:00AM
To be sure, I would consider a prostate biopsy - which would give a more definitive answer than obtaining serial PSA tests.
A free PSA can be obtained to improve the sensitivity of the PSA measurement. Studies have shown that the lower the percentage of free PSA increases the probability that the elevation is due to cancer.
These options can be discussed with your urologist.
Followup with your personal physician is essential.
This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.
Kevin, M.D.
kevinmd_b
A free PSA can be obtained to improve the sensitivity of the PSA measurement. Studies have shown that the lower the percentage of free PSA increases the probability that the elevation is due to cancer.
These options can be discussed with your urologist.
Followup with your personal physician is essential.
This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.
Kevin, M.D.
kevinmd_b
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