A new method of testing Prostate Cancer in men

A new method of testing Prostate Cancer in men

Prostate Cancer:

Prostate cancer is a very common malignant cancer affecting men sixth in order after the cancer of lung, Stomach, liver, colon and rectum.

Diagnosis of cancer prostate:

There are several tests available at present to diagnose the prostate cancer.

They are:

• Physical Examination (Rectal palpation)
• Ultra sound scan.
• C.T. Scan
• MRI Scan
• Biopsy of the prostate gland.
• P.S.A. Test (Prostate Specific Antigen Test).

Physical Examination:

Though this test does not confirm the cancer of the prostate it is the basic test to study the condition of the gland whether it is enlarged and the surface is smooth or otherwise. A well lubricated gloved finger is passed into the rectum and the prostate gland is palpated. The surface, size and pain are examined to have an idea of the condition of the gland.

Ultra Sound Examination:

The prostate is examined by ultrasound scan Trans Rectally. A rectal probe is passed through the rectum and directed towards the prostate gland. The size, shape and any abnormality present is detected and the images are reflected on to the computer monitor. The detailed structure of the gland can be studied. This test also needs to be confirmed by other tests if necessary.

C.T. Scan:

Rotating x rays are used to image the prostate gland and other soft tissues. The images obtained are clearer. The abnormalities of the gland can be studied more accurately.

M.R.I (Magnetic Resonance Imaging):

A detailed study of the prostate is performed using Magnetic resonance waves. In this the images are clear and the diagnosis is accurate.

P.S.A. Test (Prostate Specific Antigen Test.):

It is a blood test in which a specific protein produced by the prostate gland is measured. The concentration of the particular protein increases if cancer is present. If the test is abnormal it should be confirmed with other more confirmatory test.

Biopsy of the prostate gland:

It is a valuable test in detecting the cancer of the prostate. A small sample tissue will be collected with a needle and the material is studied histo pathologically to see for the presence of the cancer causing malignant cells. Because the cells are directly visualized it is highly accurate in confirming the disease.

A latest new method to detect prostate cancer: A new method is recently added to the above list of tests. In this urine sample is used instead of blood to detect the presence of metabolite ‘Sacrosine’. The sacrosine will be present in higher concentrations if cancer of the prostate is present. This test is said to be better than the routine P.S.A test as reported by the scientists of the University of Michigan Medical School.

However according to them this tests need further confirmation before introduced as routine test for detecting cancer of the prostate.