Prostate cancer is a common disease among men, especially those above 50 years of age. This cancer develops from the prostate gland, which is a small gland in the male reproductive system that produces the fluid that carries sperm cells.

Early diagnosis of prostate cancer can make treatment easier and more effective. However, when prostate cancer spreads beyond the prostate gland, it is called advanced prostate cancer, and it can be challenging to treat. In this article, we will discuss advanced prostate cancer diagnosis for accurate treatment.

Symptoms of Advanced Prostate Cancer

Prostate cancer in its early stages may not cause any symptoms. However, as the cancer grows and spreads to other parts of the body, symptoms may start to appear. Some of the common symptoms of advanced prostate cancer include:.

Bone pain, especially in the back, hips, and ribs
Unexplained weight loss
Fatigue and weakness
Difficulty urinating
Blood in the urine or semen
Erectile dysfunction
Swelling in the legs or feet

If you experience any of these symptoms, it is essential to consult a doctor as soon as possible for an advanced prostate cancer diagnosis.

Digital Rectal Exam (DRE)

The digital rectal exam (DRE) is a simple procedure that can be done in a doctor’s office. During this exam, the doctor inserts a gloved finger into the rectum to feel the prostate gland for abnormalities, such as lumps or hard spots.

If the doctor notices any abnormalities, further tests will be recommended to confirm or rule out prostate cancer.

Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) Test

The prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test is a blood test that measures the level of PSA in the blood. The PSA is a protein produced by the prostate gland. Elevated levels of PSA in the blood may be a sign of prostate cancer.

However, PSA levels can also be elevated due to other conditions, such as prostatitis (inflammation of the prostate gland). Therefore, a PSA test alone cannot confirm a diagnosis of prostate cancer. It is usually done in combination with other tests, such as a DRE or biopsy.

Prostate Biopsy

A prostate biopsy is a procedure that involves removing a small sample of prostate tissue for examination under a microscope. A prostate biopsy is usually recommended if the DRE and PSA test suggest the possibility of prostate cancer.

During the biopsy, a needle is inserted into the prostate gland through the rectum, and a small sample of tissue is removed. The sample is sent to a laboratory for examination under a microscope.

Imaging Tests

Imaging tests are useful in detecting the presence and extent of prostate cancer. Some of the common imaging tests used in the diagnosis of advanced prostate cancer include:.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) – an MRI uses a strong magnetic field and radio waves to produce detailed images of the prostate gland and surrounding tissues.
Computed Tomography (CT) Scan – a CT scan combines X-rays taken from different angles to create detailed cross-sectional images of the body.
Bone Scan – a bone scan uses a radioactive tracer that is injected into a vein. The tracer collects in areas of the bone where there is increased turnover, such as in areas affected by cancer.

Treatment of Advanced Prostate Cancer

Once prostate cancer has spread beyond the prostate gland, it is no longer curable. However, there are several treatments available that can help to slow down the progression of the cancer, provide relief from symptoms, and improve the quality of life.

The treatment options for advanced prostate cancer include:.

Hormone Therapy – hormone therapy aims to slow down the growth of prostate cancer by reducing the levels of testosterone in the body. Testosterone is a hormone that stimulates the growth of prostate cancer cells. Hormone therapy may include medication or surgery to remove the testicles (orchidectomy).
Chemotherapy – chemotherapy uses drugs to kill cancer cells. Chemotherapy may be used when hormone therapy is no longer effective.
Radiation Therapy – radiation therapy uses high-energy X-rays to kill cancer cells. Radiation therapy may be used to shrink tumors and relieve symptoms, such as bone pain.
Surgery – surgery may be recommended to remove the prostate gland or to remove cancer that has spread to other parts of the body, such as the bones or lymph nodes.

Conclusion

Advanced prostate cancer is a serious and challenging disease that requires prompt diagnosis and appropriate treatment. A combination of imaging tests, PSA tests, and a prostate biopsy can help to accurately diagnose advanced prostate cancer.

Once diagnosed, there are several treatment options available to help slow down the progression of the cancer, provide relief from symptoms, and improve the quality of life.