Prostate Cancer Screening - Steinberg Urology, Montreal

WHAT IS PROSTATE CANCER SCREENING?

Screening for prostate cancer consists of the digital rectal exam and the prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test. In a digital rectal exam, a doctor inserts a gloved finger into the rectum to feel for lumps or abnormalities in the prostate gland. The PSA test is a simple blood test that determines the level of PSA – a protein produced by the prostate gland – in the bloodstream.

A prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test measures the amount of prostate-specific antigen in the blood. PSA is released into a man’s blood by his prostate gland. Healthy men have low amounts of PSA in the blood. The amount of PSA in the blood normally increases as a man’s prostate enlarges with age. PSA may increase because of inflammation of the prostate gland (prostatitis) or prostate cancer. An injury, a digital rectal examination, or sexual activity (ejaculation) may also briefly raise PSA levels.

When done in addition to a DRE, a PSA blood test enhances detection of prostate cancer. A PSA blood test also may identify a greater number of medically insignificant lumps or growths, called tumors, in the prostate. Health care providers and patients should weigh the benefits of PSA blood testing against the risks of follow-up diagnostic tests. The procedures used to diagnose prostate cancer may cause significant side effects, including bleeding and infection.

HOW IS IT DONE?

DIGITAL RECTAL EXAM

Digital rectal exam (DRE) is an exam of the rectum. The doctor inserts a lubricated, gloved finger into the lower part of the rectum to feel the prostate for lumps or anything else that seems unusual.

PROSTATE-SPECIFIC ANTIGEN TEST

A prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test is a test that measures the level of PSA in the blood. PSA is a substance made mostly by the prostate that may be found in an increased amount in the blood of men who have prostate cancer. The level of PSA may also be high in men who have an infection or inflammation of the prostate or benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH; an enlarged, but noncancerous, prostate).

RESULTS

Follow-up tests, such as MRI and/or a biopsy, may be done to diagnose cancer.

If a PSA test is higher than normal, a biopsy of the prostate may be done. Complications from a biopsy of the prostate may include fever, pain, blood in the urine or semen, and urinary tract infection.

RISKS

What are the risks of prostate cancer screening tests?

Decisions about screening tests can be difficult. Not all screening tests are helpful and most have risks. Before having any screening test, you may want to discuss the test with your doctor. It is important to know the risks of the test and whether it has been proven to reduce the risk of dying from cancer.

Many men from across Quebec and Ontario choose Steinberg Urology for Prostate Cancer Screening. In addition to our world-class technology, our urologists have years of experience and a commitment to excellence.

Our modern facility and patient-centred philosophy will ensure you have a positive experience at every turn. Let us help you achieve optimal health and wellness in a professional, clinical setting.

Prostate Cancer Screening CAN BE ONE OF THE EFFICIENT TOOLS TO DIAGNOSE THE FOLLOWING CONDITIONS

Condition

Prostate Cancer

LET'S START TALKING !

At Steinberg Urology we pride ourselves on our compassionate care we offer to those facing challenges that affect their quality of life. Our urologists have years of experience and a commitment to excellence.

If you need to discuss this sensitive medical concern, schedule a consultation at our clinic in a safe confidential environment. Let us help you achieve optimal health and wellness in a professional setting.

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WHAT IS PROSTATE CANCER SCREENING?