After prostate cancer surgery, with a postoperative PSA level of 0.003 ng/mL, is there still a chance of recurrence?
Jan 22, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. He Feng
Introduction
In general, a postoperative PSA level of 0.003 ng/mL in prostate cancer refers to a prostate-specific antigen level of 0.003 ng/mL after surgery. This is considered an ideal state. If there is no residual tissue remaining after prostate cancer surgery, recurrence is unlikely; however, if residual tissue is present, recurrence may occur.
In general, a postoperative PSA level of 0.003 ng/mL in prostate cancer patients refers to a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) level of 0.003 ng/mL after surgery. This is considered an ideal state. If there is no residual tissue remaining after prostate cancer surgery, recurrence is usually unlikely. However, if residual tissue is present, recurrence may occur, and there is also a possibility that the prostate-specific antigen level may rise. If abnormal test results are detected, prompt medical consultation is recommended. Detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Will not recur
Typically, the normal range for prostate-specific antigen after prostate cancer surgery is 0–0.2 ng/mL. A value of 0.003 ng/mL is very low—generally, the lower the PSA level, the better. Therefore, if all cancerous tissue has been completely removed, cancer cell spread has been effectively blocked, and subsequent long-term PSA monitoring consistently shows low values, recurrence is usually unlikely.
2. May recur
Even though PSA levels drop to 0.003 ng/mL after prostate cancer surgery, recurrence cannot be entirely ruled out. The likelihood of recurrence may be influenced by various factors, including the biological characteristics of the tumor, presence of residual tissue after surgery, and lymph node status. Microscopic residual cancer cells or tumors that have metastasized to other sites may lead to a subsequent rise in PSA levels, indicating that cancer may still persist or become active again.
After prostate cancer surgery, patients should avoid excessive fatigue and staying up late, and should refrain from consuming spicy or irritating foods such as chili peppers and Sichuan pepper, as these may interfere with recovery.
