What is PSA?
- PSA stands for Prostate-Specific Antigen, a protein made by prostate cells.
- Doctors measure PSA in the blood to monitor prostate cancer activity.
Why Does PSA Sometimes Rise After Therapy?
- Temporary bounce (flare): PSA can rise briefly after treatment before it starts to fall.
- Delayed effect: Radioligand therapy may take weeks to months to show results.
- True progression: If PSA keeps rising steadily, it may mean cancer cells are still active.
What Patients Should Know
- One test is not enough: A single rise does not always mean treatment failure.
- Trends matter: Doctors look at PSA changes over time, not just one result.
- Other checks are important: Imaging scans (like PSMA PET/CT) and symptoms are equally important.
- Stay calm: Early rises can normalize later; patience is part of the process.
How Doctors Respond
- Repeat PSA tests: To confirm if the rise is temporary or persistent.
- Check scans: Imaging helps see if cancer is shrinking, stable, or growing.
- Assess symptoms: Pain, fatigue, or new complaints guide decisions.
- Adapt treatment: Options may include continuing therapy, switching to another agent, or combining with other treatments.
Key Messages for Patients
- PSA is only one piece of the puzzle.
- Rising PSA does not always mean bad news.
- Your doctor will use PSA + scans + symptoms together to decide next steps.
- Clear communication with your care team helps reduce anxiety.
FAQs
Q: My PSA went up after therapy. Should I worry?
A: Not necessarily. It may be a temporary bounce. Your doctor will recheck and confirm.
Q: How often will PSA be checked?
A: Usually every 6–12 weeks, depending on your treatment plan.
Q: What if PSA keeps rising?
A: Your doctor will discuss other treatment options or adjustments.
Bottom Line: PSA is a guide, not the whole story. Trust your care team to interpret results in the right context.
