Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels can be elevated due to various reasons, including prostate cancer, but also non-cancerous conditions. Here are some of the most common non-cancerous causes of high PSA levels:
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Age: PSA levels may increase as you get older due to the growth of benign, prostatic tissue.
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Prostate size: A larger prostate size can increase PSA levels, but it could be a sign of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), or enlarged prostate, and not necessarily cancer.
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Urinary tract infection: A urinary tract infection (UTI) can cause higher than normal PSA levels.
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Prostate infections: Prostate infections, also known as prostatitis, can elevate PSA levels because inflammation in the prostate gland can make excess PSA leak into the bloodstream.
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Recent ejaculation: Ejaculation can temporarily increase PSA levels, so it is recommended to avoid sexual activity and ejaculation for at least 48 hours before a PSA test to help ensure more accurate results.
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Vigorous exercise: Like ejaculation, vigorous exercise can also cause a temporary increase in PSA levels. It is recommended to avoid strenuous physical activity for about 48 hours before a PSA test for accurate readings.
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Digital rectal exam (DRE): A DRE can also cause a temporary increase in PSA levels. For the most accurate results, you should have your PSA test done before your DRE.
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Recent prostate biopsy: A recent prostate biopsy will also increase the PSA level.
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Certain medications: Certain medications can raise or lower PSA levels. For example, taking alpha-blockers for urinary symptoms can make PSA levels go down.
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Parathyroid hormone: High levels of parathyroid hormone may escalate PSA levels because it may promote prostate cancer cell growth, even in men who do not have prostate cancer.
It is important to note that a high PSA level does not necessarily mean that a person has prostate cancer. Other factors, such as age, digital rectal exam results, and family history, should also be considered.
