What commonly happens to PSA levels in men with benign prostatic hypertrophy?

In men with benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH), it is common for prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels to be slightly elevated. BPH causes an increase in the size of the prostate gland, which can lead to increased production of PSA, a protein produced by both normal and malignant cells of the prostate gland. While PSA levels can also be elevated due to prostate cancer or prostatitis, in the context of BPH, the elevation is typically mild.

Understanding that PSA serves not only as a tumor marker but also reflects the physiological state of the prostate is crucial. In BPH, the enlargement and subsequent changes in prostate structure can cause a mild increase in PSA levels, which is considered a normal response to the benign condition of the prostate. Regular monitoring of PSA levels is essential, as it helps differentiate between benign conditions and potential malignancies.