Two early tests are commonly used to search for prostate cancer within the absence of any symptoms. There is a digital rectal exam, by which a physician feels the prostate through the rectum to search for hard or lumpy areas called nodules.
Another is a blood test that’s used to detect a substance made by the prostate called “prostate-specific antigen” (PSA). When used together, these tests can detect abnormalities that will suggest prostate cancer.
None of those early tests for prostate cancer are perfect. Many men with mildly elevated PSA don’t develop prostate cancer, and men with prostate cancer can have normal PSA levels. Also, a digital rectal exam doesn't detect all prostate cancers, because it will possibly only assess the back of the prostate gland.
Other tests to envision for prostate cancer may include:
Cystoscopy. It can also be called the bladder circle. Your doctor uses a protracted, thin instrument called a cystoscope to look into your urethra and bladder, which is the organ above your prostate that holds urine. The device has a small lens with a light-weight at one end and an eyepiece at the opposite.
Imaging test. These take pictures of the within your body. Imaging tests used to detect prostate cancer may include:
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Magnetic resonance imaging may give your doctor a better take a look at any abnormal tumors in your prostate. A brand new test called multiparametric MRI produces high-definition images.
- Transrectal Ultrasound (TRUS). This test relies on sound waves to create a black-and-white picture of your prostate. Your doctor inserts a skinny probe through your bottom to choose up the sound echo.
- Positron emission tomography (PET) scan. This happens when your doctor injects a small amount of radioactive material called a tracer into your blood. The tracer is exposed to a special camera to assist flag cancer cells.
- PSMA PET scan. This imaging technique also uses a radioactive tracer, but it will possibly detect the spread of prostate cancer cells.
- Bone scan. It can show whether your prostate cancer has spread to your bones.
- Computed tomography (CT) scan. It uses X-rays to take pictures. Your doctor may order a CT scan in case your prostate cancer has spread to your lymph nodes, or to other organs and structures in your body.
A definitive diagnosis of prostate cancer can only be confirmed by examining prostate cells under a microscope. This is finished by doing a biopsy within the urologist's office. A small sample of tissue is taken from the prostate for examination and diagnosis under a microscope.
Your doctor will likely discuss your medical history with you. Answering questions on your loved ones history of prostate cancer may help your doctor make an accurate diagnosis. Your doctor might also ask about any changes in the best way you urinate.