Condition
Elevated PSA
A raised PSA does not necessarily mean prostate cancer. It is simply a signal that your prostate deserves a careful, expert look — and we now have modern tools to do this safely and precisely.
Overview
What is this condition?
PSA (prostate-specific antigen) is a protein produced by the prostate. Levels rise with age, prostate size, infection, inflammation and — in some cases — prostate cancer.
A modern prostate pathway uses an MRI scan first, so that biopsy is only recommended when it is truly needed, and can be targeted at any suspicious area seen on the scan.
Common symptoms
Symptoms to be aware of
A raised PSA is often picked up on a blood test with no symptoms at all. Where symptoms do occur they may include:
Frequent urination
Especially waking at night to pass urine.
Slow urinary stream
Weak flow or hesitancy starting.
Blood in urine or semen
Perineal or pelvic discomfort
Erectile changes
New bone pain
A red flag that should always be assessed.
Possible causes
What can cause it
Age-related prostate growth
The prostate naturally enlarges with age, raising the baseline PSA.
Prostatitis or infection
Inflammation can significantly raise PSA — often temporarily.
Recent activity
Cycling, sex or an examination in the days before the blood test can raise PSA.
Prostate cancer
Only some raised PSA results reflect cancer — MRI helps identify who needs biopsy.
Many causes are benign and highly treatable. A structured consultant-led assessment is the fastest way to reach a clear diagnosis and a personalised plan.
When to seek medical advice
Some symptoms should always prompt prompt specialist review. Please seek urgent medical advice — through your GP, NHS 111 or A&E — if you notice any of the following.
- New bone pain, particularly in the back or hips
- Unintentional weight loss
- Blood in the urine or semen
- Sudden difficulty passing urine or retention
- A rapidly rising PSA on repeated tests
Diagnosis
How the diagnosis is made
Diagnosis follows a clear, patient-centred pathway — often completed within one or two visits.
- 01
Medical history
Family history of prostate cancer, urinary symptoms and lifestyle review.
- 02
Examination
Gentle digital rectal examination to assess the prostate.
- 03
Repeat PSA
Often repeated after avoiding cycling, ejaculation and infection.
- 04
Prostate MRI
Multiparametric MRI to assess for suspicious areas before any biopsy.
- 05
Targeted biopsy
Where indicated, transperineal targeted biopsy under local or general anaesthetic.
- 06
Results and plan
A dedicated results appointment to discuss findings and next steps.
Treatment options
Treatments tailored to you
The right pathway depends on your PSA trend, MRI findings and biopsy results if performed.
Frequently asked questions
Your questions, answered
Why patients choose Mr Teleb
Consultant-led urology care you can trust.
Consultant-led care
Every consultation, investigation and follow-up is with Mr Teleb personally.
NHS Consultant
Substantive Consultant Urologist at University Hospital of Wales.
Evidence-based treatment
Modern, guideline-based care delivered to a high standard.
Rapid access
Most new patients are seen within a few days.
Personalised management
Treatment plans tailored to your anatomy, health and priorities.
Clear communication
Unhurried explanations, written summaries and shared decision-making.
Related conditions
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Patient information
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FRCS (Urol)
Fellowship-trained consultant
5.0 patient rating
Verified private reviews
Seen within days
Same-week appointments
All major insurers
BUPA · AXA · Aviva · Vitality · WPA