A number worth a closer look
A high PSA: what it means and what comes next
A PSA result flagged as high can bring a lot of worry. On its own it is a reason to look closer, not a diagnosis. Our urologists explain the possible causes and the sensible next step for you.
What is PSA?
PSA, prostate-specific antigen, is a protein made by the prostate that can be measured with a simple blood test. Levels naturally drift up as the prostate grows with age, so the number always has to be read in context.
Why can PSA be high?
The most common reasons are an enlarged prostate, inflammation or infection of the prostate, and prostate cancer. A recent illness, such as a bad cold or a stomach bug, can also raise it for a while, so a repeat test after you recover is often the first step.
What happens after a high PSA?
Our urologists look at the number alongside your age, past PSA results, exam and family history. Depending on that picture, the next step may be a repeat PSA, a urine test for infection, imaging, or a prostate biopsy.
What is a prostate biopsy like?
A biopsy takes small samples of prostate tissue to check for cancer. Advanced Urology offers high-resolution micro-ultrasound biopsy, which is typically completed in about 15 minutes under anesthesia at our surgery centers, including Snellville.
Afterward, it is common to see some blood in the urine, stool or semen for a short time. Fever or trouble urinating after a biopsy needs a call to us right away.
When will I get my biopsy results?
Results usually take several days. One of our urologists reviews them with you and explains whether cancer was found, how aggressive it looks, and what the options are. If cancer is found, see our prostate cancer page.
What if my biopsy is negative but my PSA stays high?
That happens, and it does not mean you are stuck. Our urologists may repeat the PSA over time, recommend imaging, or suggest a repeat biopsy, depending on how the numbers change.
Is there a video about high psa and biopsy?
Yes. This short video is from the official Advanced Urology channel.
Watch: What is Elevated PSA and how Advanced treats it What the video covers: An explainer on what an elevated PSA means and how Advanced Urology approaches it.
Which of our urologists see patients for this?
These urologists list it on their Advanced Urology profiles and see patients in Snellville or Conyers.
- Jitesh Patel, MD · Snellville
- A. Dev Mally, MD · Snellville
- Marc Greenstein, DO · Conyers
Physician assistants and nurse practitioners who help with it: Jordon Blackmon, PA-C. They are not urologists.
Which articles go deeper on this?
Short answers from Advanced Urology on the questions we hear most.
What do people ask us about high psa and biopsy?
What is a normal PSA?
Levels below 4 ng/mL are often called normal, but what is normal for you depends on your age and health. Our urologists look at the trend, not just one number.
Can an infection raise my PSA?
Yes. Prostate infection or inflammation can raise PSA, and so can a recent illness. A repeat test after treatment or recovery often helps.
Does every high PSA need a biopsy?
No. Many men start with a repeat test or imaging. A biopsy is recommended when the overall picture points that way.
Is a prostate biopsy done awake?
At Advanced Urology, micro-ultrasound biopsy is done under anesthesia at our surgery centers.
Can a cold or stomach bug raise my PSA?
It can, for a while. Rechecking the PSA after you recover is often recommended.
Where can I have my biopsy?
At our Snellville Clinic & Surgery Center, 1557 Janmar Rd. Your consultation and results visit can be in Snellville or Conyers.
More from Advanced Urology: Elevated PSA · Prostate cancer
Related care: Prostate cancer · Enlarged prostate (BPH) · Blood in the urine · All care
Where we see you: Snellville office and surgery center · Conyers clinic · What to bring and insurance
Ready to talk it through?
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