I am 62, male. How is a prostate biopsy procedure performed?

Question

Hi doctor,

I am a 62-year-old male, and my doctor has suggested a biopsy to confirm whether I have prostate cancer. Could you please explain what a prostate biopsy is and how the procedure is performed? I would also like to know what sensations or discomfort I might experience during the process.

Additionally, are there any risks associated with undergoing a biopsy? How long does it typically take to receive the results, and how accurate is the biopsy in diagnosing prostate cancer? Lastly, how soon should a biopsy be done after noticing symptoms or changes in my health?

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

Prostate cancer is a type of cancer that develops in the prostate gland, a small, walnut-shaped gland in men that produces seminal fluid. It is generally less aggressive compared to many other cancers. In most cases, patients with low-grade prostate cancer can survive for more than a decade with proper management.

You will need a complete workup for prostate cancer, which includes the following:

Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) level test.
PSMA PET-CT scan (prostate-specific membrane antigen positron emission tomography-computed tomography).
Transrectal ultrasound-guided prostatic biopsy.

The biopsy (a medical procedure that involves removing a small sample of tissue for examination to diagnose or rule out diseases) is usually smooth, with minimal risks or complications. The results from the biopsy typically take up to one week.

The treatment for prostate cancer depends on its stage, the histopathology report, and the molecular profile. It is important to note that treatment may have side effects, such as:

Impotence (erectile dysfunction).
Gynecomastia (enlarged breast tissue).
Infertility.

In most patients, the prognosis is favorable with treatment. Surgery, such as radical prostatectomy (surgical removal of the entire prostate gland), is not required for all cases but can be curative in the early stages of the disease. Various treatment options are available, tailored to the stage of cancer and the initial assessment.

Discussing these options with your specialist to choose the best course of action is recommended.

I hope this helps.

Please revert so I can assist you further.

Thank you.