A prostate cancer doctor provides insights during a consultation for suspected prostate cancer. During your appointment, the doctor may administer testing along with discussing prostate cancer treatments. Here is what to anticipate during your appointment with a cancer doctor:
Medical History Discussion
Disclosing conditions like diabetes, obesity, or erectile dysfunction, along with lifestyle habits, gives the doctor insight into your overall health. A family history of prostate, breast, or ovarian cancer also suggests possible inherited gene mutations associated with higher prostate cancer risk. Medical records allow the doctor to uncover connections between your health and the likelihood of you developing prostate cancer.
Symptom Review
The prostate cancer doctor will ask questions about urinary and sexual function changes in recent months. Frequent urges to urinate, difficulty starting and stopping the stream, interrupted sleep for bathroom trips, blood in the urine, or new erectile issues can reveal potential prostate enlargement. These symptoms combined may prompt further testing.
Digital Rectal Exam
A digital rectal exam (DRE) helps reveal prostate enlargement or abnormalities. Inserting a gloved, lubricated finger into the rectum allows the physician to feel the texture, shape, and size of the prostate gland. Smooth, symmetrical enlargement may indicate benign prostatic hyperplasia, while hard lumps or irregular surfaces suggest prostate cancer. The brief and necessary exam identifies potential red flags that may require further investigation.
PSA Blood Test
Levels of prostate-specific antigen, or PSA, exceeding your age range may mean prostate disease. High PSA points to cancer, but benign growths can also raise PSA levels. This blood test helps the doctor assess your health and recommend tests to attain a diagnosis.
MRI Fusion Biopsy
Based on the findings from your DRE and PSA test, imaging may be recommended. The doctor may schedule an MRI fusion biopsy to gather prostate tissue samples for lab analysis. This minimally invasive outpatient procedure uses high-definition imaging to pinpoint and biopsy small tumor areas while sparing healthy tissue. The advanced MRI, combined with ultrasound guidance, allows for needle placement for tissue sample extraction during the biopsy procedure. Tissue samples are examined under a microscope to determine if cancer cells are present. Clear biopsy results help to guide your next steps.
Treatment Options Discussion
For confirmed prostate cancer, the doctor explains treatment approaches. Active surveillance may be best for very low-risk localized cancer. Radiation therapy, surgery, or hormone therapy may better address higher-risk tumors. The doctor explains expected outcomes, side effects, and timelines for each option so you can make an informed decision.
Consult a Prostate Cancer Doctor Today
Regular screenings allow you to test various cancer cells’ shapes, textures, and protozoan combinations. Urology doctors also perform PSA tests to detect elevated levels of prostate proteins that could indicate cancer. While not definitive, elevated PSA levels combined with abnormal textures felt during rectal exams also provide information when assessing prostate health. Before these tests or procedures, relay any symptoms you’ve been experiencing in the pelvic region, such as difficulty urinating or pain, that could relate to an underlying condition. Contact a prostate cancer doctor for more information today.
