Ask the Nurse

What causes PSA levels to increase after prostate removal due to benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)?

William, Wicklow

Surgical removal of the prostate is one treatment for non-cancerous prostate gland enlargement (benign prostatic hyperplasia/BPH). In this procedure, the surgeon removes some, but not all, of the prostate. Trauma to the prostate tissue and subsequent re-growth of prostate tissue may cause an increase in PSA levels. In addition, elevated PSA levels can indicate:

• Inflammation of the prostate (prostatitis)
• Recurrent BPH
• Prostate cancer

Keep in mind that adult men with healthy prostates can also have higher-than-normal PSA levels. It is important that PSA levels be interpreted by your GP or doctor experienced in prostate disease.

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