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Prostate Cancer Screening & Biopsy
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Screening Tests are important in diagnosing prostate cancers. They consist of a digital rectal exam (DRE) and a blood test called PSA (Prostate Specific Antigen)
Our physician performs a digital rectal exam by gently inserting a gloved finger into the rectum. The prostate is located in front of the rectum, and the back wall of the prostate can be examined for abnormalities with a "rectal exam". Under normal conditions, the prostate should have a rubbery consistency and should have a smooth contour. If the prostate feels abnormal, such as having a hard consistency, having nodules (abnormal bumps on its surface), or having an irregular border, then the prostate will have to be further evaluated (such as having a biopsy of the prostate). These findings can be hallmarks of a developing cancer in the prostate.
PSA is a substance produced in the prostate gland and a small amount of it circulates in the blood. If a man’s PSA is high, it may be an indicator that there are cancer cells in the prostate. Therefore, typically a man who is found to have an elevated PSA level will need to undergo further evaluation. This may include a prostate biopsy to determine if there are cancer cells in the prostate. If a man with prostate cancer is diagnosed early, his chances for cure are dramatically better. Most early prostate cancers can be detected using this blood test, and it is currently the best screening tool available for detecting early prostate cancer.
Biopsy
If your DRE or PSA results are abnormal or suspicious for cancer, the next step usually is to obtain a biopsy of the prostate. The biopsy involves taking several small samples of tissue from different areas of the prostate after anesthetic is administered. The sections will be sent to a pathologist who will examine each sample for prostate cancer cells. Because of the anesthetics, a prostate biopsy is a relatively pain free procedure- it typically only takes about 15 minutes to perform.
General Information
Risk Factors for Prostate Cancer
Grading and Staging of Prostate Cancer
Treatment Options for Early Stage Prostate Cancer
Treatment Options for Advanced Stage Prostate Cancer
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