Diagnosis of Prostate Cancer

The diagnosis of prostate cancer can be made through several different tests. Two common tests are initially used to diagnose this type of cancer when no symptoms are present. These tests are certainly not perfect but they can be used to help diagnose prostate cancer.

The Tests
To begin with, the digital rectal exam can be ordered by your physician. Otherwise known as DRE, this exam is used by physicians to locate any hard lumps or nodules that are located within the prostate itself. This exam's goal is to detect the cancer at the earliest possible stages so that treatment and curability is within range.

This exam is usually done during a normal office visit. The prostate gland is located close to the rectum, so the exam is actually very easy for physicians to conduct. They will usually take a gloved, lubricated finger and insert it into the rectum to see if they can feel any lumps or nodules on the prostate gland itself. The test only takes a few minutes and causes only slight pain or discomfort that will subside once the exam is over.

Annual screenings for patients ages 50 or above is recommended by the American Cancer Society. These screenings are preventative because men above this age are more susceptible to developing prostate cancer. Age ranges vary depending upon whether you have a family history of prostate cancer or other risk factors. Men in high risk groups are encouraged to begin screening processes as early as age 40.

The other test that is used to help diagnose this cancer is the prostate specific antigen blood test. The PSA blood test works by measuring the prostate's PSA levels. Most men have PSA levels under four and this is usually the cutoff range for prostate cancer diagnosis or for the risk of developing this type of cancer. In cancer patients, the PSA level is usually above four; however, cancer can develop at any PSA level.

Now, researchers are suggesting lowering the range for risk, especially in younger patients. Because younger patients have smaller prostates, their levels are lower and PSA levels of 2.5 may be cause for concern.

The PSA blood test is easy to perform and easy for the patient. It only involves drawing blood, usually from the arm. The blood is then sent to the laboratory and the results come back within a matter of a few days. This test is also recommended on an annual basis in addition to the digital rectal examination.

If you feel that you are experiencing any signs or symptoms of this cancer, schedule an appointment with your physician to have one of these simple tests conducted. Your physician may want to perform both exams to be on the safe side. Diagnosis of prostate cancer is as easy as taking a few minutes out of your day for these tests and involves a minimal amount of pain or discomfort.

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