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Prostate assessments can find out whether you might have prostate cancer or another prostate problem, such as an enlarged prostate or prostatitis. You might hear these tests being called a prostate screening test or exam. Such tests include a PSA test, PCA3 test, Multiple Parametric MRI (mpMRI) and biopsies.
PSA Test for
Prostate Cancer
A PSA test is a blood test that measures the level of PSA – Prostate Specific Antigen – in a man’s blood
PSA is a protein made by the prostate which naturally leaks into the blood stream. After testing, if a man’s levels of PSA are said to be ‘raised’, it could be a sign that he has prostate cancer. However, a raised PSA level can also indicate that another, non-cancerous, prostate condition exists. Following a raised PSA test result, the only way to definitely determine whether prostate cancer exists is through a biopsy of the prostate.
Prostate Screening Test
From Only £70
Early detection provides
better chance of effective management providing the information needed to help decide if further treatment might be required
Results within 48 hours
Our Consultant Urologist will discuss your results with you and make recommendations if further tests or investigations are required.
Why should I get a prostate test?
The earlier a cancer is picked up, the easier it is to treat it and the more likely the treatment is to be successful. It is important that you get a prostate screen as soon as possible if you notice worrying symptoms.
Testing for prostate cancer is an important part of cancer care. Early detection provides a better chance of effective management and provides the information needed to help decide if further treatment might be required. The aim of screening is to diagnose disease:
- At an early stage
- Before symptoms start
- When it is easier to treat
- When it is more likely to be curable
Unlike many other cancers, prostate cancers can be there for years before they are found. This type of cancer can often grow very slowly indeed and may not cause any symptoms or problems at all during a man’s lifetime. By the age of 80, many men will have some cancer cells in their prostate, but only 1 in 25 of them will actually die from prostate cancer. On the other hand, some types of prostate cancer are faster growing and can spread to other parts of the body.
The PCA3 Test
The PCA3 test measures the levels of prostate cancer gene 3. This gene is found in high levels in prostate cancer cells. The test involves an examination of the prostate and collection of sample of urine, which is taken for testing for the PCA3 gene. The PCA3 test can help determine if a repeat prostate biopsy would likely be positive and whether a man may avoid an unnecessary repeat biopsy.
The PCA3 test isn’t affected by an enlarged prostate, prostatitis, or other conditions of the prostate gland.
PCA3 is present in increased amounts in about 90% of prostate cancers. Prostate specific antigen (PSA) is also produced in increased amounts by prostate cancers however can be increased in a number of benign conditions as well.
Elevated PSA test
Concern has been raised
Negative Biopsy
Results may return as negative
however more tests need to be taken
PCA3 Test
Further tests confirm if
another biopsy is required
Multiple Parametric MRI
for Prostate Cancer
Multi-parametric magnetic resonance imaging (mpMRI) works by creating detailed images of your prostate and surrounding tissues that enable clinicians to better detect suspected prostate cancer.
An mpMRI will give clear information about whether there is cancer inside your prostate, and how quickly any cancer is likely to grow. An mpMRI is usually taken before a biopsy. If you do need a biopsy, the scanned images from the MRI will be used to decide which parts of the prostate to take samples from.
Biopsy for
Prostate Cancer
If there is a concern, a biopsy will be required. This involves taking a sample piece of tissue in order to examine the area more closely. Blood tests may also be necessary.
If there is an abnormality and the biopsy results come back positive for Prostate Cancer, you will be referred onto our specialist oncology service. You will be advised of the choices of treatment available to you and you will be given time to think over your options.