Advice to patients undergoing follow up PSA (prostate-specific antigen) measurement by their GP - FAQ

What is the PSA blood test?

Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) is a substance produced in the prostate gland. All men have some in their blood. If the amount in the blood is abnormally high, it might indicate that you have a disease in the prostate, which could be cancer or other conditions such as inflammation. PSA is not specific for cancer. In patients already diagnosed and treated for prostate cancer and in patients following normal tests to exclude prostate cancer, it is very valuable to monitor the changes of the PSA value over time.

Why do I need regular PSA tests?

You have either been diagnosed and treated for prostate cancer or have had normal tests to exclude prostate cancer. You may also be on active surveillance where the PSA is used as part of your monitoring process. Having already made several PSA measurements we will be able to use changes in your PSA as an indicator of how things are progressing or if there is a need to reassess and change your management. Please note that PSA can also be affected by many other factor including infections, natural growth of the prostate over time or sexual activity.

What does follow up PSA measurement involve?

PSA is measured by taking a simple blood test. With the results of PSA test and assessment the doctor or nurse will be able to advise you on wether there is a need to change your management.

Where can follow up PSA measurement take place?

This can happen in the hospital or at your GP. It is very important though that you are aware of your PSA reading yourself after every test. You can get this from your nurse or GP or GP practice. This is especially important if you are on active surveillance and/or have been told you have a PSA threshold or level you should not go over.

Other information

Please see your GP if you experience any new or worsening urinary symptoms or side effects from medication.

Who can I contact for more help or information?

Oncology nurses

Uro-oncology nurse specialist
01223 586748

Bladder cancer nurse practitioner (haematuria, chemotherapy and BCG)
01223 274608

Prostate cancer nurse practitioner
01223 274608 or 216897 or bleep 154-548

Surgical care practitioner
01223 348590 or 256157 or bleep 154-351

Non-oncology nurses

Urology nurse practitioner (incontinence, urodynamics, catheter patients)
01223 274608 or 586748 or bleep 157-237

Urology nurse practitioner (stoma care)
01223 349800

Urology nurse practitioner (stone disease)
01223 349800 or bleep 152-879

Patient Advice and Liaison Centre (PALS)
Telephone: +44 (0)1223 216756
PatientLine: *801 (from patient bedside telephones only)
E mail: cuh.pals@nhs.net
Mail: PALS, Box No 53 Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
Hills Road, Cambridge, CB2 2QQ

Chaplaincy and multi faith community
Telephone: +44 (0)1223 217769
E mail: cuh.chaplaincy@nhs.net
Mail: The Chaplaincy, Box No 105 Addenbrooke's Hospital
Hills Road, Cambridge, CB2 2QQ

MINICOM System ("type" system for the hard of hearing)
Telephone: +44 (0)1223 217589

Access office (travel, parking and security information)
Telephone: +44 (0)1223 596060