Types of Cancer > Prostate Cancer > Diagnosis

Prostate Cancer Diagnosis

Biopsy
A physician will recommend a core needle biopsy if a man's PSA level is elevated and digital rectal exam is abnormal. During a biopsy, the physician inserts a narrow needle into the prostate to remove tissue samples, which a pathologist examines for the presence of cancer. If cancer cells are found, further tests are done to determine the extent and aggressiveness of the disease.

Gleason Grading System
Pathologists determine the aggressiveness of prostate cancer using the Gleason grading system, which estimates the cancer's potential to grow and spread. Cells with a low Gleason grade pose less of a threat, while tumors with a high Gleason grade (greater than or equal to 7) are more likely to grow and spread beyond the prostate.

Diagnostic Imaging
Various imaging tests may be used to determine the stage or extent of the prostate tumor and whether cancer cells have spread to nearby tissues or other parts of the body. These tests may include ultrasound, magnetic resonance imaging, computed tomography, positron emission tomography and bone scans.