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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.

Current as of: May 4, 2022

Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review:
Adam Husney MD - Family Medicine
Kathleen Romito MD - Family Medicine
Richard M. Hoffman MD, MPH - Internal Medicine

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