PROSTATE CANCER
DIAGNOSIS |
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A series of investigations may be used to
diagnose prostate cancer, including a PSA (prostate specific
antigen) test. This is used to determine the levels of PSA, a
protein produced by the prostate and released into the semen. Some
PSA is also found in the blood. A high level of PSA in the blood,
however, usually indicates prostate problems and will require
further investigations to confirm the presence of prostate cancer.
While PSA levels are very useful for diagnosing
cancer, they have their limitations and must be interpreted in
conjunction with other investigations such as a rectal examination
to determine the degree of prostate enlargement
and an ultrasound of the prostate.
Some important points to note about PSA tests:
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High levels of PSA
are not specific to prostate cancer. The level of this protein
naturally rises with age as the prostate grows. It is also
elevated in BPH and prostatitis, an infection of the prostate.
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Very high PSA
levels usually indicate the presence of prostate cancer.
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Normal PSA levels
do not rule out the presence of prostate cancer. |
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PSA does not
distinguish between aggressive and slow growing tumours. |
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A raised PSA level
can be monitored to see how fast it is rising; levels rise
faster if prostate cancer is present. |
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PSA levels are used
to assess response to treatment and to detect recurrence of
prostate cancer. |
Other
investigations that may be used to confirm prostate cancer include a
prostate biopsy and a bone scan. The biopsy is performed under
ultrasound guidance. If prostate cancer is confirmed, themalignancy
can be scored using the Gleason Score system, which grades the
severity of the cancer from 1-10. Negative biopsies do not rule out
the possibility of cancer. A bone scan is used to check for
secondary (metastatic) disease. It works by injecting a low dose of
radioactive chemical, which will show up "hotspots" where the cancer
has spread. |
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| PROSTATE CANCER RELATED ITEMS |
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