Detection & Diagnosis of Prostate Cancer

Although a delayed onset of symptoms can complicate an early prostate cancer diagnosis, regular physical exams and the use of certain screening tests have helped doctors identify this serious condition far earlier than past techniques allowed.

Routine screening tests for prostate cancer include:

• Digital Rectal Exams (DRE)
  A routine exam performed in the doctor’s office during which a physician examines the size, shape and texture of the prostate gland
• Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) Tests
  A blood test that analyzes a blood sample for concentrations of PSA – a blood protein produced by the prostate gland. High amounts of PSA in the sample indicate a problem with the prostate and the need for further testing.

If abnormalities are detected during either the DRE or PSA test, your physician will order further testing, including a:

• Transrectal Ultrasound
  An outpatient procedure that uses a small probe inserted via the rectum to get an image of the prostate
• Prostate Biopsy
  An outpatient procedure that gathers a small prostate tissue sample that is tested to evaluate whether or not the prostate contains cancerous cells

Upon the completion of these tests, doctors can definitively confirm or deny the presence of prostate cancer. To determine whether prostate cancer has spread to other areas of the body, doctors may also perform further ultrasounds, x-rays and additional biopsies.

To meet with one of our physicians to discuss tests and exams like these, request a consultation today!