Can MRI detect prostate cancer linked to family history?

Question

Hello doctor,

My PSA levels have increased from 3.1 to 4.8 ng/mL in six months. DRE reveals an asymmetric prostate. I have a family history of prostate cancer in my father. I am scheduled for an MRI next week. What should I expect from the MRI? How accurate is it in detecting significant cancer? Please help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern.

PSA (prostate-specific antigen) is raised in prostate cancer (a type of cancer that occurs in the prostate, a small gland in men that produces seminal fluid). It is also increased in other benign conditions of the prostate, like benign prostatic hyperplasia (a non-cancerous condition that causes the prostate gland to enlarge, also known as an enlarged prostate) and prostatitis (a painful condition that involves inflammation of the prostate gland).

As DRE (digital rectal examination) shows an asymmetric prostate, it is indicative of some lesion of the prostate, which could be benign or malignant. It should be conferred by MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) and the prostate biopsy (a medical procedure that involves removing tissue or cells from the body for examination). MRI is highly accurate in detecting prostate cancer. Studies have shown that MRI can diagnose prostate cancer with an accuracy of about 93 percent.

A positive family history of prostate cancer is indicative of hereditary transmission of the mutated carcinogenic genes, and secondly, the risk of development of prostate cancer is increased.

I hope this helps you.

Thank you.