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Are Elevated PSA And DRE Signs Of Prostate Cancer?

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Posted on Thu, 18 Feb 2016
Twitter Thu, 18 Feb 2016 Answered on
Twitter Wed, 27 Apr 2016 Last reviewed on
Question : A 67 year old friend of mine suddenly had an elevated PSA and a concerning DRE. Does this mean that
he has prostate cancer, or could there be other reasons.


My friend is getting an MRI on monday
doctor
Answered by Dr. Robert Galamaga (25 minutes later)
Brief Answer:
Considerations.

Detailed Answer:
Hello and thanks for the query.

An elevated PSA does not always indicate prostate cancer. However, if the number is very high then it can in fact be concerning.

It sounds like his doctor is ordering imaging to evaluate the DRE findings. A biopsy may be done in order to confirm whether there may in fact be cancer.

I know this is very stressful but I would encourage him to complete the testing ordered by his doctor so a diagnosis can be made. If this is in fact prostate cancer there are many good treatment options available.

Thank you again for sending the query.
You can always get back to me if you have further query.
Sincerely,

Dr Galamaga
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. Deepak
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Dr. Robert Galamaga

Oncologist

Practicing since :2002

Answered : 2635 Questions

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Are Elevated PSA And DRE Signs Of Prostate Cancer?

Brief Answer: Considerations. Detailed Answer: Hello and thanks for the query. An elevated PSA does not always indicate prostate cancer. However, if the number is very high then it can in fact be concerning. It sounds like his doctor is ordering imaging to evaluate the DRE findings. A biopsy may be done in order to confirm whether there may in fact be cancer. I know this is very stressful but I would encourage him to complete the testing ordered by his doctor so a diagnosis can be made. If this is in fact prostate cancer there are many good treatment options available. Thank you again for sending the query. You can always get back to me if you have further query. Sincerely, Dr Galamaga