Concern About PSA Rising Weeks After Surgery: Any Similar Cases?

Hi all!

My father, who is 73, underwent radical prostatectomy in early June. His initial biopsy showed a Gleason score of 3+3, but after surgery the pathology report upgraded it to 4+4. As a result —among other implications— the lymph nodes were not removed during the procedure. His cancer was classified as T3a, with extraprostatic extension, no seminal vesicle invasion, and negative surgical margins.

His PSA at 8 weeks was <0.01, which was very reassuring. However, at 20 weeks it has come back at 0.04. His doctor still isn’t concerned and has scheduled another test in 4 weeks.

Has anyone had a similar experience? Isn’t it a bit early for such an increase? I’ve read comments about variability and random fluctuations in PSA at these stages. I suppose two tests at this point aren’t enough to draw any real conclusions… but we’re anxious and a bit scared.

Looking forward to hearing from anyone who has gone through something similar. Thank you!