There is no guarantee that prostate cancer will never spread outside of the prostate. It can grow into nearby tissues, lymphatic channels, or the surrounding rectum. Prostate cancer has an affinity for bones, and it can spread to the lower spine, pelvis, femur, and even the brain. Rarely, it can spread to the lungs and liver. The good news is that there are many treatments for prostate cancer. Regardless of the type, you should seek the services of a physician as early as possible.
Prostate cancer can be difficult to detect, especially early on. In the early stages, there are no clear symptoms, and some men may have the disease without even realizing it. A few signs of prostate cancer may include weak urine flow, sudden weight loss, and decreased sexual function. Prostate cancer can also affect a man’s bowel habits and lower body swelling. It’s important to see your doctor as early as possible, because the earlier the disease is detected, the easier it will be to treat it.
Depending on the stage of the disease, treatment may include surgery or radiation. Active surveillance is an option for low-grade prostate cancer. It involves regular follow-ups, rectal exams, and prostate biopsies. Treatment may be delayed or skipped if the cancer does not cause any symptoms or grows slowly. It may also be a good option for older men, people with chronic illnesses, or people who are suffering from advanced age.
After a biopsy, your doctor will assess the grade of your prostate cancer. The higher the grade, the more aggressive the cancer is. In general, a higher Gleason score indicates a more aggressive disease that will spread more rapidly. Some doctors perform other tests to determine the stage of a patient’s cancer and to make treatment recommendations. If the biopsy shows that your doctor has detected prostate cancer, you will receive further tests. The results will inform your treatment plan.
A positive tissue biopsy is preferred before a patient undergoes a treatment for advanced prostate cancer. However, obtaining a positive tissue biopsy may not be practical in many situations. The patient may not have any confirmatory records or may be apprehensive about undergoing a biopsy. Also, it is important to note that patients with prostate cancer may be unwilling to undergo a new diagnostic procedure or may have a history of pulmonary embolism or other cardiovascular conditions. Despite these risks, a positive biopsy does not improve the patient’s chances of survival.
A positive PSA test can help detect prostate cancer in its early stages. A PSA blood test is the most common blood test for early detection of prostate cancer. However, this test only indicates the presence of any changes in the prostate. If you are worried about your risk of developing prostate cancer, consult your doctor to discuss PSA blood tests. Your healthcare provider may be aggressive in recommending follow-up testing for cancer in your family. While a negative test is the best option for men with a family history of the disease, it doesn’t mean you won’t get it.
