Sign-in to Ask A Doctor - 24x7
OR
Sign in with Google
Do Blood Thinners Cause High PSA Levels?
Question: Age 81, Had annual physical 7 weeks ago, normal DRE, PSA was 7.0 Returned for repeat PSA and recv'd 14 reading. Been on blood thinner for four years. Physically and sexually active and not active for 7 days prior to most recent exam yesterday. I am very suspicious the blood thinner is contributing to this high reading. I have a follow-up meeting schedule with a urologist. in one week.
Any suggestions before the biopsy question comes up.
Had a biopsy 7 years ago after PSA 0f 10 Negative been in the 3-5 range since then
Any suggestions before the biopsy question comes up.
Had a biopsy 7 years ago after PSA 0f 10 Negative been in the 3-5 range since then
Brief Answer:
I don't see a relationship between the blood thinner and PSA levels
Detailed Answer:
Hello,
the PSA levels may fluctuate depending on various known and unknown factors. A repeat measurement wouldn't have gone amiss. I would have asked for a new measurement 4-6 weeks after the first, provided that the patient had no symptoms.
There is no connection with the blood thinner. A urinary tract infection (including prostatitis) might increase the PSA level, so any urinary tract symptoms have to be evaluated.
If your PSA 'insists' on rising without any alternative explanation then you won't avoid the biopsy.
Contact me again, if you'd like any clarification or further information.
Kind Regards!
I don't see a relationship between the blood thinner and PSA levels
Detailed Answer:
Hello,
the PSA levels may fluctuate depending on various known and unknown factors. A repeat measurement wouldn't have gone amiss. I would have asked for a new measurement 4-6 weeks after the first, provided that the patient had no symptoms.
There is no connection with the blood thinner. A urinary tract infection (including prostatitis) might increase the PSA level, so any urinary tract symptoms have to be evaluated.
If your PSA 'insists' on rising without any alternative explanation then you won't avoid the biopsy.
Contact me again, if you'd like any clarification or further information.
Kind Regards!
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Thank you your answer was informative especially about the blood thinner.
Brief Answer:
you're welcome
Detailed Answer:
I'll be glad to answer any further questions you may have!
Kind regards!
you're welcome
Detailed Answer:
I'll be glad to answer any further questions you may have!
Kind regards!
Note: For further follow up on related General & Family Physician Click here.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Answered by
Get personalised answers from verified doctor in minutes across 80+ specialties
