None of the following tests is an individually conclusive indicator of prostate cancer. Your doctor is likely to use more than one test to determine whether or not you are affected by prostate cancer. Everyman is carrying out further research to find a more efficient, comprehensive test - as an early diagnosis is so important to successful treatment.
“Prostate Cancer isn’t all doom and gloom these days-recent advances have been tremendous.”
Rectal Examination
Your doctor can actually feel the size of the prostate gland. However, an enlarged prostate does not necessarily indicate prostate cancer.
PSA Blood Test
Tests the level of ‘Prostate Specific Antigen’ in the blood. A high reading suggests prostate cancer but could be caused by other conditions. See What is PSA? for further information.
Biopsy
A tiny sample of tissue from the prostate is taken using a probe which is inserted into the back passage and the tissue then analysed.
Ultrasound
A small probe is inserted into the back passage and a scan taken to show the exact size of the prostate.
Bone Scan
Can be taken to determine whether there is any cancer that has spread to the bones near the prostate.