We understand that a diagnosis of prostate cancer can be a daunting prospect, but we believe that understanding the process of how prostate cancer is diagnosed is important for our patients, as it can help ease anxiety and empower patients to be actively involved in making informed decisions about their health.
We understand that a diagnosis of prostate cancer can be a daunting prospect, but we believe that understanding the process of how prostate cancer is diagnosed is important for our patients, as it can help ease anxiety and empower patients to be actively involved in making informed decisions about their health.
Today’s blog looks at how prostate cancer is diagnosed, exploring the methods and tests that we use to make a definitive diagnosis.
How prostate cancer is diagnosed: Causes and risk factors
When we discuss how prostate cancer is diagnosed, we firstly must consider the risk factors. Whilst there are no definitive causes of prostate cancer in men, there are some known risk factors:
- Age, increasing risk especially after 50 years old
- A family history of prostate, breast or ovarian cancer (especially with BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene mutations)
- A first degree relative (father or brother) diagnosed with prostate cancer before the age of 60
- There may also be an association with high testosterone levels.
Men who have one or more of these risk factors should consider speaking to their doctor about how prostate cancer is diagnosed, and discuss prostate cancer screening.
How prostate cancer is diagnosed: Could it be cancer?
Prostate cancer affects around one in seven Australian men. Whilst most men won’t die from the disease, it remains a leading cause of death in Australian men.
Having an understanding of how prostate cancer is diagnosed can help; early detection and treatment can improve survival from prostate cancer.
Early prostate cancer does not usually cause any symptoms. Some of the symptoms of advanced prostate cancer may include:
- Frequent and urgent need to urinate
- Difficulty or pain during urination
- Blood in the urine or semen
- Weak urine stream
- Pain in the back or pelvis, or other areas of the body (if the disease has spread to axial bones or other parts of the body).
It is important to note that these symptoms can also be caused by a number of other conditions, so experiencing one or more of these does not necessarily mean that prostate cancer is present.
The only way to definitely diagnose prostate cancer is by conducting a series of tests specifically for it. If your urologist suspects that you may have early or advanced prostate cancer, it may be recommended that you have some of the tests that we will describe below.
How prostate cancer is diagnosed: PSA Blood testing
The PSA (prostate specific antigen) test measures the level of PSA, which is a protein that is made by both normal and cancerous cells of the prostate. Whilst the PSA blood test does not definitely diagnose prostate cancer, it is a useful tool for your doctor, as it can be used to assess changes in your PSA levels over time, helping to determine your risk of prostate cancer.
How prostate cancer is diagnosed: MRI fusion transperineal biopsy
When we’re looking at how prostate cancer is diagnosed, prostate biopsy is the only definitive way to obtain a definitive diagnosis.
MRI fusion transperineal prostate biopsy is the most accurate and comprehensive way to sample the prostate for changes that may be related to prostate cancer or other conditions.
An MRI fusion prostate biopsy is used to remove small samples of tissue from the prostate gland. For this procedure to take place, the patient will have had an MRI scan prior. The MRI image is fused with a live ultrasound image, generated through an ultrasound probe that is inserted into the patient’s rectum. A special biopsy grid is positioned against the skin behind the scrotum. This allows the surgeon to collect biopsies from specific areas of interest in the prostate.
The samples are sent off and examined by a laboratory. If prostate cancer is detected, the biopsy samples will also be used to determine the aggressiveness of the disease (Gleason score). This information can then be used to guide treatment recommendations.
How prostate cancer is diagnosed: In Conclusion
When considering how prostate cancer is diagnosed, it is important to remember that the process involves a comprehensive approach by the urologist. This approach combines the patient’s medical and family history, a physical examination, imaging tests, biopsies, and laboratory analyses.
The urologists at Melbourne Urology Centre will be able to guide you through the diagnostic process, working closely with you to detect any abnormalities and determine an appropriate treatment and management plan.
By seeking prompt medical attention for those who are at higher risk of developing prostate cancer, or in symptomatic cases, patients can improve their chances of early detection and timely intervention.