Screening tests
Since Prostate cancer does not cause symptoms in the early stage, the following screening tests are recommended and include:
- Digital rectal exam (DRE): A digital rectal exam is not fun but essential in examining the prostate. The digital exam can discover the presence of any abnormalities in the texture, shape or size of your gland.
- Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test: This blood test analyzes the levels of a chemical released from the prostate. Higher levels are not always specific for prostate cancer because infection, inflammation or prostate enlargement may also cause an increase in this chemical.
- Transrectal ultrasound: If the above tests raise any suspicion of prostate cancer, a small probe is placed through the rectum and the gland is analyzed. The images can reveal the presence of any mass or deformity of the gland.
Prostate biopsy
If there is suspicion that a mass may be present, a prostate biopsy is the next step. The biopsy is done under ultrasound guidance. The ultrasound probe is placed through the rectum and will identify any abnormal areas.
A fine needle is then inserted for a biopsy. There is minimal pain associated with the test. The tissue specimen is analyzed by the pathologist and the grade of the tumor is determined.
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