What may cause an insignificant increase in prostate-specific antigen levels?

Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels can fluctuate due to various factors, and a digital rectal exam (DRE) is one of the procedures that may lead to a minimal, transient increase in PSA levels. During a DRE, the healthcare provider palpates the prostate gland, which can cause slight irritation or trauma to the tissue, potentially resulting in an insignificant spike in PSA. This increase is usually temporary and does not indicate a significant change in the prostate's health.

In contrast, prostate biopsy typically causes a more notable increase in PSA levels, reflecting potential trauma and inflammation. The normal aging process is associated with gradual increases in PSA levels, reflecting benign changes in the prostate rather than an insignificant rise. Prolonged sexual activity may also elevate PSA levels due to increased glandular activity and inflammation, but such an increase is often more significant and not classed as insignificant.

Therefore, the digital rectal exam stands out as the procedure most likely to cause a minor, temporary increase in PSA levels that is not clinically significant.