PSA 5.6 - MRI or Not

In July, 2013, my PSA was 6.0 and free PSA was 18.2% (17% probability of cancer). I also had positive DRE.

I had an MRI in January of 2014 that was negative for cancer, but positive for BPH and prostatitis.

I just retested PSA and it was in the 7's, so did 14 days of antibiotics that dropped PSA to 5.6 which is the lowest reading I have had in almost 2 years. Free PSA was 19.1% (23% probability of cancer). The probability went up just because I am now over 64 yo. If I used the 64 and under range, it would be the same as it was 1 1/2 years ago.

I was planning on getting another MRI, but I wonder if it is necessary. What do you all think? PSA has not gone up and Free PSA has stayed about the same. Nothing seems to indicate I have cancer.

I am on Medicare, so my only cost is for travel and lodging. Better safe than sorry or just keep monitoring PSA and free PSA?

I'd save the MRI for when you need one.

I'd monitor PHI instead of % free PSA and PSA.

You might want to take Proscar or Avodart for your BPH. It makes your PSA a better indicator, and prevents PC while it reduces BPH.

- Allen