Before a patient chooses a modality what tests are used to determine where the cancer is?
Academic Title: Associate Professor
Board Certifications:
Urology
The diagnosis of prostate cancer is made through a transrectal ultrasound evaluation with needle biopsy of the prostate.
Once the diagnosis is confirmed, there are other tests that can be ordered, based on the characteristics of the tumor. If the cancer is low risk, indicated by a PSA <10, a Gleason score of 6, and a normal rectal exam, then we typically do not need any additional tests, but will sometimes get a CAT scan of the abdomen and pelvis and a bone scan.
If the cancer is intermediate or high risk, indicated by a PSA >10 or Gleason score >6, then we always order these 2 tests, and will also sometimes order a pelvic MRI as well, especially for the highest risk patients.