High PSA Results That Are Not Cancer (False Positives)

High PSA Results That Are Not Cancer (False Positives)

Out of 1,000 men who have a PSA test, about 170 of them will have a high PSA level. Out of these 170 men with a high PSA level, about 117 of them will not have cancer, while about 53 of them will have 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: September 8, 2021

Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review:
Adam Husney MD - Family Medicine
Donald Sproule MDCM, CCFP - Family Medicine
Kathleen Romito MD - Family Medicine
Mary F. McNaughton Collins MD, MPH - Internal Medicine