High PSA Levels
Depending on how high the PSA is, the standard recommendation is to have a biopsy because a needle biopsy is so easily performed and provides a definitive answer about the suspicious results. However, there are options for men who do not want to have a biopsy at the present time. One option is to have a repeat test to verify the result. PSA levels naturally vary in men from test to test, and there is variability in the tests themselves. So, it is acceptable to get a high result rechecked. Another option is to wait, and have another test in a few months to observe the trend in PSA level. A third option, becoming more common, is to have a percent-free PSA analysis done. This can help clarify whether borderline PSA levels may be due to BPH or prostate cancer. If the DRE result is abnormal as well, a biopsy is recommended.
