High PSA Results That Are Not Cancer (False Positives)

Out of 1,000 PSA tests, about 170 will find a high PSA level. Out of those 170 high PSA test results, about 129 will not be from cancer, while about 41 of the 170 will be from cancer.

PSA tests can show high levels of PSA that aren't caused by cancer (called a false-positive). This means you may need more tests to check for prostate cancer.

The information shown here is based on the best available evidence.

ByHealthwise Staff

Primary Medical ReviewerAdam Husney, MD - Family Medicine

Specialist Medical ReviewerRichard M. Hoffman, MD, MPH - Internal Medicine

Current as ofMay 3, 2017

Current as of: May 3, 2017

Author: Healthwise Staff

Medical Review: Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine & Richard M. Hoffman, MD, MPH - Internal Medicine