Prostate tests are a necessary part of cancer diagnosis. These are used to check if an individual has prostate cancer or any other prostate related problem. Some of the most common ones include PSA test, prostate biopsy, digital rectal examination (DRE), and scans.
Here’s a brief introduction to these tests:
Introduction to Prostate Tests
These tests are very helpful in finding out whether you might have prostate cancer or some other prostate problem (prostatitis or enlarged prostate).
Common Prostate Tests
A single test cannot diagnose prostate cancer. Hence, the patient has to go through a series of tests to find out if you have a prostate problem. The key tests include the following listed below:
- A urine test to rule out any urine infection
- A PSA (prostate specific antigen) blood test
- A digital rectal examination (DRE)
A PSA Test is a type of blood test that measures the amount of prostate specific antigen (PSA) in blood. PSA is actually a protein produced by healthy cells in the prostate and by prostate cancer cells.
Presence of some amount of PSA in blood is normal. With age, the amount may rise slightly. A rise in PSA level may suggest a problem with the prostate. However, this may not necessarily indicate cancer.
Prior to having the above listed tests, your General Practitioner or Primary Care Doctor will explain what they involve. He should also discuss the pros and cons of all of the tests. You will get more information on prostate cancer and your own risk of getting it.
Finally, it is your decision to have the tests. Hence, make sure you have gathered all necessary information beforehand. Also give yourself some time to think through the whole process.
Once you have gotten all of your test results, it is time to talk through the results with your doctor. In case, they think you may have a prostate cancer or other condition related to prostate, they will have you schedule an appointment with a Urologist.
Surgeries for Prostate Cancer
Today, Robotic Prostatectomy has become the gold standard to treat Prostate cancer. The surgery performed by an experienced robotic surgeon, is recognized for its accuracy and precise removal of the cancerous prostate, and a faster return of erectile (sexual) function.
Tests Conducted at the Hospital
You will meet a specialist (urologist) at the hospital. Here, you may be asked to get another PSA test or a DRE. The urologist will have a close look at your:
- PSA level
- Results of DRE
- Potential risk of prostate cancer
- General health
A Urologist may recommend some of the following tests depending on your condition and symptoms:
- MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) scan
- Prostate biopsy
- CT (computerized tomography) scan
- Bone scan (this may be done with or without X-rays)
In some cases, experts may ask for a urine flow test combined with an ultrasound scan of your bladder. These tests are mainly done to see if the patient has an enlarged prostate.