Diagnostic Testing Methods for Prostate Cancer, Prostat...

Testing Methods Include the following: Examinations and Visualizations Digital Rectal Examination (DRE) A procedure in which a physician inserts a gloved, lubricated finger into the rectum to feel the prostate. Chest X ray An image that may show whether cancer has spread to the lungs or other structures in the chest, such as the ribs. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) A picture produced by a computer and a high-powered magnet that shows the prostate and other nearby parts of the body. Transrectal ultrasonography (TRUS) A procedure in which an instrument is inserted into the rectum and produces sound waves directed at the prostate; from these sound waves, a picture is created. Computed tomography (CT) A picture produced by a computer from X rays, showing the prostate and other nearby parts of the body. Intravenous pyelogram (IVP) An X ray of the kidneys, ureters, and bladder that is taken after the patient has been injected with a special dye. Bone scan A picture that is taken using radioactive material that can show whether cancer has spread to the bone. ProstaScint® Scan Uses radioactive material to detect the presence of a prostate-specific substance in the body. Detecting the substance outside of the prostate may suggest the prostate cancer has spread. Tissue Samples Prostate biopsy The removal and microscopic examination of multiple small samples of the prostate tissue to determine whether it contains cancer cells. Pelvic lymph node dissection (also called pelvic lymphadenectomy) Surgical removal of lymph nodes in the pelvis; used to help determine whether prostate cancer has spread--typically done during surgery to remove the prostate (radical prostatectomy). Blood Tests Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) A substance found in the blood produced by normal and cancerous prostate cells that often may increase in cases of prostate cancer and other prostate diseases. It is useful both in diagnosis and follow-up of prostate cancer.