How will the treatment of prostate cancer be decided? Prostate cancer is categorized based on the stage and extent of the disease, which is defined by a staging system. The most common staging system is the TNM (Terminal Node Method) staging system, which was updated in 2018. The tumor stage describes the extent of disease and can be determined by PSA levels, a physical exam, and imaging tests. A TNM staging reveals the severity of a man’s cancer.
The treatments for prostate cancer vary greatly based on stage and type, and may include surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. Patients with bone-directed cancer may also undergo hormone therapy, steroid hormone replacement therapy, chemotherapy, vaccines, bisphosphonates, and robotic surgery. A biopsy is required before a patient receives treatment, but the process is quick and can often be done on an outpatient basis. If surgery is ruled out, radiation therapy may be the most appropriate choice.
While biopsy may be an accurate diagnosis, it is also important to consider other factors before undergoing it. PSA levels of higher than three are not indicative of cancer. If a physician believes that your PSA is too high, he may recommend a biopsy instead. Using the DRE and PSA to diagnose prostate cancer is the best option for your case. However, a biopsy can be difficult if it is accompanied by other symptoms or if your cancer has spread.
The most common form of prostate cancer is adenocarcinoma. Despite its name, adenocarcinoma is a type of cancer arising from glandular tissue in the prostate. Non-adenocarcinoma prostate cancer, on the other hand, involves a different type of cancer. BPH, or benign prostatic hyperplasia, is a condition in which abnormal growth of prostate cells affects the flow of urine. The symptoms and progression of BPH can significantly affect a man’s quality of life.
In addition to blood in the urine, there are other signs of prostate cancer. These include painful ejaculation, impotence, fatigue, and weight loss. The symptoms of prostate cancer can be attributed to other health issues, such as smoking or obesity. If you suspect that you may be suffering from prostate cancer, consult a doctor as soon as you notice any symptoms. The symptoms of BPH may include pelvic pain, burning or itching in the back, and a decreased ability to urinate.
While BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations are more common in breast and ovarian cancers, some men have hereditary cases of the disease. Hereditary cancers may also be caused by mutations in PALB2, RAD51D, and CHEK2.
In addition to PSA tests, most urologists recommend regular screenings for prostate cancer. Prostate cancer is most treatable at its earliest stages. Regular bloodwork, including testing for prostate specific antigen, is an effective way to diagnose the disease. In fact, ninety percent of prostate cancer cases are detected early enough to avoid invasive treatment. Despite the numerous benefits of screening, it is important to seek a proper diagnosis as early as possible.
