Accepted Answer

Hello XXXXXXXXXX,

I am wondering why will you be worried about PSA levels of 0.2 after radiation therapy.

PSA or the Prostatic specific antigen is an enzyme produced by both normal and abnormal prostate tissues. It is usually elevated in benign conditions, as in prostatic inflammation or hypertrophy. The level will also be elevated if cancer is present.

PSA values is helpful over time in following recurrence of cancer and the response to therapy. The following standards have been set for PSA levels:

• Less than 4 ng/mL - Normal value

• 4-10 ng/mL - Either benign disorder or cancer

• Greater than 10 ng/mL - Most likely cancer

• Less than 0.2 ng/mL - After prostate is surgically removed

If his PSA level is 0.2, that means he has low PSA level - that sound to be a good news. It has been speculated that if the patient's PSA drops to a low level after treatment with radiation therapy,stays normal for 4 to 5 years, and there are no other signs the disease is returning, it is highly likely the cancer has been cured.

These links has more information: http://www.emedicinehealth.com/prostate_cancer/page5_em.htm

http://www.cancer.org/docroot/NWS/content/NWS_1_1x_Low_PSA_May_Signal_Success_of_Prostate_Cancer_Treatment.asp

http://www.psa-rising.com/med/ebr/nadir_survivalpostrad06.htm

Good luck!

 

 

Expert:	Lani, BSN, RN
Pos. Feedback:	99.0 %
Accepts:
Answered:	2/17/2008

Nurse

A Registered Nurse for 19 years.