Most men do not have any symptoms. Instead they are diagnosed with a prostate cancer screening blood test called a PSA (prostate specific antigen). For men of average risk, PSA screening usually begins around age 55.
GW Cancer Center does not follow the U.S. Preventive Services Taskforce as it relates to screening for high risk patients. We recommend high risk men begin screening at age 40-45 so that we can diagnose cancer in the earliest, most treatable stages.
If you are at risk for prostate cancer, or have been diagnosed, your physician may refer you to our multidisciplinary clinic. Here we offer an opportunity for patients to interact with several prostate specialists during a single visit.
Our team works together to provide an accurate diagnosis and to create the best treatment plan. When there are options, we will guide you in deciding which treatment path is right for you. Our multidisciplinary team includes:
- Urologists
- Medical oncologists
- Radiation oncologists
- Oncology nurses
- Genetic counselors
- Dietitians
Early diagnosis and treatment offer the best outcomes. Our advanced detection tools improve diagnosis and enhance treatment. They provide critical information about how well a patient may respond to therapy. GW Cancer Center offers the following diagnostic tests for prostate cancer:
Biopsy: We offer these options for collecting a sample of tissue to test for the presence of cancer:
- GW Cancer Center was first in the region to use the UroNav Fusion MRI-Ultrasound biopsy platform. It fuses pre-biopsy MRI images with ultrasound images to accurately guide a biopsy needle in real time. The system provides excellent visuals of the prostate gland and needle for better tissue collection.
- ConfirmMDx detects changes in DNA to eliminate the possibility of false-negative or false-positive biopsy results. It ensures patients only undergo necessary procedures.
- Oncotype DX and Decipher aid in identifying the type and aggressiveness of prostate cancer. As a result, physicians can develop a personalized treatment plan that will deliver the best outcomes for patients.
Imaging studies: Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and computed tomography (CT) scans take internal pictures of the body to detect cancerous growths.[JL1]
PSA screening: Simple screening blood tests look for abnormally high levels of the protein (antigen) found in prostate cells. It allows prostate cancer cases to be diagnosed at an early stage and to have a higher probability of cure. We offer:
- 4KScore to predict an individual’s risk for developing an aggressive form of prostate cancer. It also calculates how likely it is that the cancer will spread.
- Prostate Health Index (PHI) to present the probability of diagnosing prostate cancer through a biopsy.
Urinalysis: The SelectMDx test examinesa urine sample at the molecular level. It determines whether a patient is at risk for prostate cancer. It helps to eliminate unnecessary biopsy procedures.