Apollo Network
The Apollo Doctor Answers Your Questions
Posted by ApolloDoc
Thursday, June 18th 2009 @ 03:40:42 PM EST

Dear Apollo Doctor: Can the PSA numbers be influenced by antibiotics if there is cancer, or only if its an infection? The doctor wants to get a biopsy, but I'm not convinced it's the thing to do. For the past few years my PSA has been elevated (once as high as 8 or 9), but after antibiotics comes down to 2 or 3. A digital exam reveals nothing but enlargement. A negative biopsy won't prove there isn't cancer. I think I have a chronic infection and need a longer course of antibiotic. Doesn't the PSA being influenced that much point toward infection? Thanks, Greg

Dear Greg, this is a very good question, and the answer is the latter. Although there can be some variation in the PSA from time to time, even with prostate cancer, a course of antibiotics will not change the PSA as much as you describe in a man with prostate cancer. Neither a normal digital rectal exam (DRE) nor a negative biopsy can completely rule out cancer. In your case, I'd recommend a two or three month course of antibiotics before repeating the PSA.

Dear Doc, I had cataract surgery today and my vision has been blurry in that eye since. Do you know if this is usual and if it will clear up? - Jazz

Dear Jazz, by now, you will have seen your Ophthalmologist at least once for follow up after your surgery and had this issue addressed. Let us know how you're doing.

Dear Doc, I, 80 years old, and found recently that I can get an erection only when I'm standing up. If I am lying down, there is no reaction to stimulus. Is this normal for my age, or should I see the urologist to find out what's wrong (if they would know?) Thanks for your help to the Apollo Network gang.

Dear Friend, This is a perplexing question. I've asked several Urologists, none of whom have an answer or even an approach for your problem. Sorry to be of little help.

Dear Doc, Can men that had heart operation (3 bypass) take Viagra?

Dear Friend, Most men who have had successful coronary artery bypass surgery can safely use Viagra, Levitra, or Cialis, if they don't require the potential use of nitroglycerin for chest pain. Your Cardiologist would be the the best to answer that question, based upon your individual situation. Do not hesitate to ask him or her at your next visit. If he/she recommends that you do not use Viagra or the others, other options may be open to you, such as a vacuum pump device or injection therapy. That can be initialed with your Urologist.

Note: The above is from our new Apollo Network Doctor. Yes, he is a real medical doctor and gay. Send your questions to

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