What Do These PSA Levels With Family History Of Prostate Cancer Indicate?

Posted on Fri, 7 Aug 2015

Question: I am the wife of a man who just had a follow-up PSA blood draw. The results were 4.1. A year ago they were in the one range. The test that precipitated the follow-up draw had the level at 3.9. Two urine tests have come up negative for infection. At the appointment for the first draw, the doctor did not feel anything. Our follow-up is two weeks from now. Should we be overly concerned or jus marginally concerned. His father had prostrate cancer at the age of 70. However, it was treated and he was fine. He died at the age of 87, 5 years ago.

Answered by Dr. Matthew J. Mangat (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
Nothing to worry.

Detailed Answer:
Hello XXXXX and welcome to HCM.
Your concern is fully understandable. PSA upto 4 is considered normal.
As clinical examination by your doctor was normal, according to you, there's absolutely nothing to worry about.
As an Urologist, i assure you, that don't get tense for no reason. Convey this to your husband also. Next visit to his Urologist is needed after 6 months only.
Prostate cancer is not a hereditary disease, such that it must be seen in the children. So don't worry about that either. Also, don't think about cancer, when your doctor has not diagnosed it.
Hope your doubt is cleared. Let your husband read this message, and show your love and concern for him.
Feel free to contact me anytime.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vaishalee Punj

Follow up: Dr. Matthew J. Mangat (6 hours later)

Thank you for your response. It was very helpful. I'm not sure my husband is less stressed, but I think, as when he received the 3.9 result, in a couple of days he relaxes a bit. I think the follow-up that is scheduled in two weeks may just be another physical to verify that the doctor did not have any findings from the visit last month.

Answered by Dr. Matthew J. Mangat (4 hours later)

Brief Answer:
You're welcome.

Detailed Answer:
Hi again.
Good to know, you're relaxed and feel happy.
At the next visit, ensure that an ultrasound scan of the prostate gland (TRUS), had been done. TRUS (Trans Rectal Ultrasound Scan ).
Wish you well.

Note: Consult a Urologist online for consultation about prostate and bladder problems, sexual dysfunction, kidney stones, prostate enlargement, urinary incontinence, impotence and erectile dysfunction - Click here.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad