Prostate-specific antigen increase after urethral catheterisation: fact or myth

Abstract Background To find out any association of urethral catheterisation with rise in serum PSA. Methods This study was conducted in 80 patients of BPH who had to undergo catheterisation because of acute urinary retention. Patients were divided into two groups: Group A (n = 43 patients), age group 40–60 years, and Group B (n = 47 patients), age group 60–75 years. Values of PSA, free/total PSA and PSA density were recorded in both age groups before catheterisation and one and three days after catheterisation. Results PSA, PSA density and free/total PSA were not statistically different before and after urethral catheterisation. Conclusions In the absence of urinary tract infection, urethral catheterisation does not elevate serum PSA. PSA, PSA density and free/total PSA were not statistically different before and after urethral catheterisation.