The larger or more active the gland, the more PSA found in the blood. Thus older men often have their PSA checked. If PSA levels rise sharply, most physicians then use ultrasound to examine the prostate. Conditions that affect the prostate gland Enlargement of the prostate, or hypertrophy , without cancer is common. It leads to difficulty in urination.
Correction is often possible.
Bacteria can infect the gland causing prostatitis , a serious condition that requires treatment with antibiotics. Cancer is the most serious problem, but prostate cancer is often slow growing and may not require immediate treatment. If possible prostate cancer is found, different steps may be taken depending on the indications and on the age and overall health of the patient. If PSA levels remain low, an older patient is more likely to die from other causes than from prostate cancer. Surgery at later stages cures more than half of all prostate cancers .