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I am 54 years old and have had prostatitis about 6 or 7 years ago. I

also ride my bicycle over 4000 miles a year which I have read may

cause inflammation? About 2 months ago I was experiencing similar

symptoms and went to general physician. He prescribed antibiotic

(Factiv). Went back in two weeks and he did DRE and prescribed Bactrim

for approx two weeks. Went back and he ordered a PSA. It came out at

7.7. I continued to take Bactrim and went to a urologist approx. two

weeks later. He did another PSA which came in at 7.6. He also did a

DRE. He wants a biopsy and this is the point at which I have

questions. I have done some research and have these concerns.

1. Is it usual practice for a Physicians Assistant to perform the

biopsy. Also, the doctor's office is telling me that I have to come in

two separate times...the first for just an ultrasound and the second

for the actual biopsy. Otherwise the insurance company will not pay

for it.

2. Should the free PSA be taken before doing the biopsy? My doctor

says that the free PSA test should be done instead of a second biopsy

(6 months later) if the first biopsy is good.

3. Also, I was reading about a doctor at Northwestern University who

does a Pro PSA test and says this is more reliable?

4. Also, should a radiologist read the ultrasound? I asked my doctor

about this and he said he reads it.

Any info is greatly appreciated.