Aa
Aa
A
A
A
Close
Avatar universal

PSA level rising after Prostatectomy

I am 48 yrs old and had a radical prostatectomy in Jan 2005, lymph nodes were removed but were not infected by the cancer.  My gleason score was 7 and PSA level was 4.3 at the time of diagnosis.  I have had a good recovery and life is back to normal.  I have been seeing my urologist every 6 months since the surgery and having PSA tests.  the first 4 tests post surgery have all seen PSA levels of 0.01 or less.  Today I had a 6 month follow up visit and my PSA has risen to 0.2.   The Dr has suggested that we do a follow-up in 4 months to see if the PSA level goes back down or to start monitoring closer the rise in PSA level if it in fact is starting to rise.  My question is How concerned should I be at this time?  If the PSA continues to rise, what treatment should there be?  I am very worried about this latest PSA level.  Looking forward to your reply.
3 Responses
Sort by: Helpful Oldest Newest
242579 tn?1252111171
MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL
A psa recurrence after prostatectomy is usually defined as 0.2 or greater. Some urologists believe that two consective PSA values of 0.2 or greater constitute PSA recurrence.  I would be mildy concerned about your PSA level and tell your urologist to perform closer follow-ups and even discuss treatment options. Your treatment options include radiation therapy or hormonal treatment, which you urologist will talk to you more about.  Other tests may also be needed such as a bone scan or MRI of the spine.
Helpful - 4
Avatar universal
A related discussion, PSA rise within 6 months after surgery? was started.
Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
Helpful - 0

You are reading content posted in the Prostate Cancer Forum

Popular Resources
A report from Missouri Medicine argues that, despite earlier media coverage, increased omega-3 fatty acid intake does not increase prostate cancer risk.
They got it all wrong: Why the PSA test is imperative for saving lives from prostate cancer
Get the facts about this disease that affects more than 240,000 men each year.
10 prostate cancer misconceptions debunked.
Diet and digestion have more to do with cancer prevention than you may realize
A list of national and international resources and hotlines to help connect you to needed health and medical services.