Prostate Cancer Diagnosis

Prostate cancer is a malignant tumor of the urinary system commonly seen in middle-aged and elderly men. Early stages often show no obvious symptoms, but if not diagnosed in time, it can easily develop into bone metastasis or local invasion, seriously affecting quality of life. Current confirmation mainly relies on clinical examinations, blood marker tests, and imaging techniques in combination.

Diagnostic Basis

1. Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) Test
PSA is the most widely used blood marker for prostate cancer. A blood test measures PSA levels, and elevated values suggest possible abnormalities in the prostate, including inflammation, hyperplasia, or malignancy. Dynamic changes in PSA are also useful for monitoring disease progression and treatment response.

2. Digital Rectal Examination (DRE)
This is a simple and effective preliminary examination. The doctor uses a finger through the rectum to palpate the prostate and assess for abnormalities such as hard nodules or asymmetry. Although not a precise diagnostic method, it serves as a clue to suspicious lesions.

3. Multiparametric MRI
In recent years, MRI—especially multiparametric MRI—has been widely applied in prostate cancer diagnosis. It not only accurately locates lesions but also determines whether the tumor has broken through the prostate capsule, helping doctors with staging and guiding biopsy pathways.

4. Prostate Biopsy
When PSA levels are elevated or MRI detects suspicious lesions, a prostate biopsy is usually performed. Tissue samples are collected transrectally or transperineally and sent for pathological examination to confirm cancer. This remains the most direct method for definitive diagnosis.

5. Pathological Grading System
Biopsy tissue is scored according to cell differentiation, known as the Gleason score. Higher scores indicate more aggressive tumors. This system helps assess cancer aggressiveness and provides a basis for treatment planning.

6. PET-CT
In suspected metastasis or recurrence, PET-CT can evaluate whether cancer has spread throughout the body. It is particularly useful for advanced patients or postoperative follow-up, revealing small lesions in bones, lymph nodes, and other organs, making it one of the more sensitive examination methods.

7. Genetic Testing and Precision Assessment
Some high-risk patients may undergo genetic testing to assess cancer risk or recurrence probability. With the development of personalized treatment, these auxiliary evaluation methods are increasingly valued in clinical practice.

Conclusion

The diagnosis of prostate cancer requires the combined use of multiple methods, from blood markers and imaging to pathological analysis, all of which are indispensable. Experts at United Life International Medical Center emphasize that early screening and precise assessment are key to improving prostate cancer prognosis, and should receive high attention from both society and individuals.