The ability to diagnose prostate cancer early is critical to successful treatment of the disease. Although blood tests and MRI scans can indicate that there may be Prostate Cancer present, they do not provide definitive proof. At that point, the prostate biopsy becomes the most important diagnostic test. Prostate biopsy is considered to be the most accurate way to diagnose prostate cancer because it allows the physician to view tissue samples from the prostate through a microscope.
What is a Prostate Biopsy?
A prostate biopsy is a procedure that consists of taking a number of small samples (biopsies) of prostate tissue and sending them to pathology for evaluation. The objective of the prostate biopsy is to identify the presence of cancerous cells in the prostate, and if cancer is found, to determine the degree of aggressiveness in the tumor.
When is it Time for a Prostate Biopsy?
A physician may recommend a prostate biopsy when any of the following occur:
- An elevation in PSA levels
- An abnormality during a digital rectal exam (DRE)
- MRI studies reveal suspicious lesions in the prostate
- There are symptoms that could be caused by problems with the prostate
While any of the above results might suggest that Prostate Cancer is present, only a prostate biopsy can confirm the diagnosis.
What Steps Are Taken in the Biopsy Procedure?
Most prostate biopsies are done with ultrasound assistance. Step-by-Step Breakdown of the Procedure is as follows:
- The patient is placed in a comfortable position.
- A small ultrasound probe is inserted into the rectum in order to visualize the prostate.
- Tiny samples of tissue are taken using a fine needle to give multiple samples of tissue.
- The tissue samples are sent to a laboratory for analysis.
The procedure will normally take a short amount of time and is usually done with the use of local anesthesia.
What Information Is Provided By A Biopsy?
A biopsy provides much more detailed information than simply finding out whether cancer is present, including the following:
- If cancer cells are present
- What grade the cancer has
- How aggressive the cancer is.
- How much of the prostate is involved?
An important finding from the biopsy will be the Gleason Score, which will help doctors determine the aggressiveness of the cancer.
What Is The Importance of Biopsy Results in Planning Treatment?
The results of the biopsy will be one of the most important pieces of information available for planning what the next steps of Prostate Cancer treatment will be for the patient.
Depending on the results of the biopsy, the treatment options may include:
- Active surveillance
- Surgery
- Radiation therapy
- Hormonal treatment
Without a biopsy, it will be nearly impossible to develop a proper treatment plan that is tailored to the individual patient.
Sohana Hospital Mohali, is the leading choice for patients looking for prostate gland enlargement treatment, thanks to its advanced technology and North India’s most trusted and experienced prostate specialists. Book your appointment today!