The accuracy of the increased prostate specific antigen level (greater than or equal to 20 ng./ml.) in predicting prostate cancer: is biopsy always required?

Abstract

Serum PSA, when increased above 50 ng./ml., is 98.5% accurate in predicting the presence of prostate cancer on tissue biopsy. Nonetheless, since transrectal prostate biopsy has a low complication rate and is relatively well tolerated, we recommend continuing to biopsy most patients with high PSA levels. However, carefully selected elderly patients on chronic anticoagulation, with severe co-morbidities or presenting with spinal cord compression may not require biopsy before androgen ablative therapy since PSA is highly accurate in diagnosing prostate cancer at levels greater than 50 ng./ml.