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Prostate Cancer Blog

By Matthew Schmitz, M.D., About.com Guide to Prostate Cancer

Does Every High PSA Mean Prostate Cancer?

Monday November 10, 2008

Simply put, no.

A high PSA (prostate specific antigen) level can be due to a large number of different causes, many of which are far more common that prostate cancer.

BPH (benign prostatic hyperplasia), prostatitis (an inflammation or infection of the prostate), recent sexual activity, or even vigorous physical activity such as bicycyle riding can result in an elevated PSA level. Prostate cancer is also a potential cause of the high PSA level, but it is far less common than these other benign causes.

A more detailed explanation of the PSA test and some common causes of an abnormal PSA test are available for you to read.

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