What is the PSA level after prostate removal?
After a prostatectomy, i.e. the surgical removal of the prostate, the PSA value is measured at regular intervals. It should fall below the detection limit within 4-6 weeks, since ideally there is no tissue left that could produce PSA. If this is not the case or if the value rises above 0.2 ng/ml again after an initial drop, this indicates a so-called biochemical recurrence, also known as “PSA progress”. In this case, a specialist in urology should be consulted urgently.
What does it mean when the PSA level rises again?
As already mentioned, the PSA level is not necessarily suitable for the early detection of prostate cancer. However, the situation is completely different in the aftercare: After treatment of the tumor, regular check-ups must be carried out, during which, in addition to a palpation examination (DRU), the PSA value in particular is determined.A recurrence, i.e. a reoccurrence of prostate cancer, can be detected very early by means of a PSA value. If the PSA level rises above a certain threshold value during follow-up care, this is referred to as a biochemical recurrence.
In addition to a local recurrence, PSA can also be caused by metastases that have not yet been detected or treated. In any case, an increase of the PSA level in the aftercare after a successful therapy requires a precise clarification. However, even after radiotherapy for prostate cancer, the PSA level often still increases after 1 to 5 years. The reasons for this are still unknown.