Disclaimer

Although we take care to ensure accuracy, Macmillan Cancer Support does not accept liability for the information and materials provided or referenced in Ask an Expert or for any errors or omissions in them, or for third-party information or services such as other websites we may link to. The information and materials provided or referenced in Ask an Expert are for information purposes only and are not intended to be legal, financial or medical advice or opinions. If you need more details on your rights, please contact a financial, legal or other appropriate adviser.

We recommend that you consult your doctor if you are concerned about your health. Any You should not rely on any information and materials provided or referenced in Ask an Expert including by our Experts as they are not a replacement for advice, diagnosis or treatment from your medical team, and our Experts cannot provide a second opinion to that of your medical team.

Your question can be read by others – so please don't post your contact details or any other information that could personally identify you. Please read our Terms and Conditions and Community Guidelines for more details.

PSA rise 11 months after prostatectomy

FormerMember
FormerMember
  • 1 reply
  • 41 subscribers
  • 419 views

My dad got diagnosed with intraductal prostate cancer in November 2020. He got his prostate removed in March 2021 and got 3 monthly PSA checks with all being 0.1. In February, his PSA had risen to 0.2. His consultant called him to inform him of the next steps so he has had an MRI and a bone scan and has an appointment for his results in a couple of weeks. He has never had the opportunity to speak to anyone regarding this and as you can imagine, he has no idea what is going on really, none of us do.  People keep reassuring us that a rise in PSA doesn't always mean the worst but if it doesn't mean he has cancer - is there another explanation for it? 

I understand everyone is different and it is a case by case basis but we are completely unaware of what this means and going forward what to expect. 

Thanks in advance. 

  • Hi 16hogg,

    Welcome to the online community. I am sorry to hear that you have concerns about the rise in your dad’s PSA. It must be frustrating for him that he hasn’t had the chance to discuss this with anyone.

    Your dad may have a urology specialist nurse or clinical nurse specialist (CNS) he could speak to about his concerns. They may still be waiting for investigation results and the outcome of the multi-disciplinary team meeting (MDT) before they are able to give your dad any further information.

    An increase in the PSA after prostatectomy (removal of the prostate) may suggest the presence of some prostate cancer cells. I appreciate that waiting for these results can be difficult.

    It is important to know that PSA levels can sometimes fluctuate a bit on their own, even during or after treatment, so they may not always be a sign of what is happening with your dad’s cancer. A one-time, small rise in PSA might cause closer monitoring, but it might not mean that the cancer is still there (or has returned). The American Cancer Society has further information about following PSA levels during and after prostate cancer treatment. As it is an American site not all the information will apply but it may be helpful in understanding the PSA monitoring process.

    Whilst we cannot tell you if the rise in PSA is a related to his cancer. It is important to be aware that if this does indicate a return of the cancer that there is lots of treatment available. Lots of men with recurrent prostate cancer continue to live long and active lives.

    Going forward if your dad were to need more treatment then Prostate Cancer UK have information about if your prostate cancer comes back.  

    I hope you and your dad are keeping well and coping as best you can with this uncertainty. If you would like further support please do get in touch with us on the Macmillan Support Line 0808 808 0000 (7 days a week, 8am-8pm) or take a look at some of the support resources on our website.

    Best wishes

    Penelope, Cancer Information Nurse Specialist 

    You can also speak with the Macmillan Support Line team of experts. Phone free on 0808 808 0000 (7 days a week, 8am-8pm) or send us an email. 

    Ref/ AM

Help us do whatever it takes, because we’ve never been needed more.

© Macmillan Cancer Support 2025 © Macmillan Cancer Support, registered charity in England and Wales (261017), Scotland (SC039907) and the Isle of Man (604). Also operating in Northern Ireland. A company limited by guarantee, registered in England and Wales company number 2400969. Isle of Man company number 4694F. Registered office: 3rd Floor, Bronze Building, The Forge, 105 Sumner Street, London, SE1 9HZ. VAT no: 668265007