What, Besides Cancer, Can Elevate PSA Test Results?

• Age can increase PSA levels, as can sexual activity within 48 hours of a test. An inflammation of the prostate gland or an infection can raise them. A larger than average prostate may cause a higher than normal PSA reading, even if the prostate is healthy. Digital rectal exams and biopsies of the prostate may cause levels to rise (a biopsy may elevate PSA levels for up to a month).
  
  

What Lowers PSA Test Results?

• PSA levels can be lowered by as much as 50 percent by medications used to control urinary problems due to BPH and prostatitis. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and aspirin on a daily basis (aspirin therapy) cause PSA levels to drop about 10 percent. And the regular use of acetaminophen (Tylenol) can also cause levels to decrease.
  
  

Statistical Study

• Acetaminophen and NSAIDs were both evaluated as part of a national health study on PSA levels. The study, which gathered data on 1,319 men, concluded in 2008. Results of the study were discussed in the September 8, 2008 issue of Cancer by Dr. Eric A. Singer, chief resident in urology at the University of Rochester in New York.
  
  

One Conclusion from the Study

• One conclusion derived from the study is that the effects of NSAIDs and acetaminophen on PSA levels raise questions that require a larger, clinical trial.
  
  

Taking Acetaminophen before Your PSA Test

• As the study indicates that acetaminophen may lower your PSA level and affect accurate results, you should add acetaminophen to the list of things you should not take prior to your PSA test.