Prostate Cancer

  • Prostate cancer is a type of cancer that occurs in the prostate. This disease is one of the most common types of cancer in men. Types of prostate cancer grow at different rates - some may require minimal treatment, other, more aggressive types can spread rapidly. Understanding who is at risk is crucial for early detection and effective management.

    Certain factors increase the risk of developing prostate cancer. Age is a significant risk factor, with the likelihood of developing this disease increasing dramatically after the age of 50. Family history also plays a crucial role; men who have a father or brother diagnosed with prostate cancer are at heightened risk. Additionally, race and ethnicity influence risk levels, with men of African decent facing a considerably higher risk compared to others. Lifestyle factors, including diet and physical activity, may also impact the likelihood of developing prostate cancer, although further research is needed to fully understand these connections. By recognising these risk factors, individuals can make informed decisions about screening and preventive measures.

  • Prostate cancer often develops slowly and may not exhibit noticeable symptoms in its early stages. However, as the disease progresses, several symptoms may become apparent. Common signs include difficulty in urinating, a decreased force in the urine stream, and frequent urination, particularly at night. Some individuals may experience pain or discomfort in the pelvic area or bones, blood in the urine or semen, and erectile dysfunction. It's important for individuals who notice these symptoms to contact your GP. Alternatively, you can arrange an appointment with Dr Deanne here.

  • The most common forms of diagnosis include Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood tests (see below) and digital rectal exams (DRE). The results of these screenings may require Dr Deanne to arrange additional tests including MRI and biopsy.

    On recieving a positive diagnosis of prostate cancer, Dr Deanne wil discuss options for treatment with you. These treatment options will be individualised as Dr Deanne prefers to ensure treatment plans consider patient preferences, health and severity of the disease.

    One treatment option includes Robotic-assisted radical prostatectomy - a inimally invasive surgery using robot technology that offers enhanced precision, minimal blood loss, and faster recovery process. Dr Deanne is a specialist in this field and has undergone specific training in robotic surgery.

PSA Screening

The Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) test is a commonly used blood test for screening prostate cancer. It measures the level of prostate-specific antigen, a substance produced by the prostate gland. While a small amount of PSA is normal, a higher level can indicate prostate cancer. However, elevated PSA levels can also be caused by non-cancerous conditions like an enlarged prostate or prostate infection. Thus, a PSA test alone cannot definitively diagnose cancer, but it can serve as an indicator for further diagnostic tests.

Research has shown that these tests have contributed to reducing the mortality rate from prostate cancer in males. Dr. Deanne will provide guidance on your PSA test results and discuss any additional investigations that may be required.

  • An elevated PSA level can indicate prostate cancer, but various non-cancerous conditions may also cause PSA levels to rise. For instance, benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), an enlargement of the prostate gland, can lead to higher PSA levels. Prostatitis, an inflammation of the prostate, is another condition that can cause a PSA increase. Additionally, certain medical procedures or recent ejaculation can temporarily elevate PSA levels. Understanding these possibilities is crucial for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment planning.

    Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH): BPH, a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate, is common in aging men and often results in increased PSA levels. Symptoms include difficulty urinating, a weak urine stream, and frequent urination, particularly at night. Although BPH is not cancerous, it can significantly affect quality of life.

    Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): UTIs can also raise PSA levels, affecting the bladder and prostate. Symptoms include a burning sensation during urination, frequent urination, cloudy or strong-smelling urine, and pelvic pain. Prompt antibiotic treatment is essential to prevent the infection from spreading to the kidneys.

    Age: PSA levels naturally tend to increase with age due to the gradual enlargement of the prostate gland, a normal aspect of aging. Regular monitoring of PSA levels can help differentiate between age-related changes and potential medical conditions.

    Prostate Trauma or Injury: Recent medical procedures or biopsies can cause temporary elevations in PSA levels. This is usually short-lived, with PSA levels returning to normal after a few weeks. It is important to inform your healthcare provider of any recent procedures when interpreting PSA test results.

    Prostatitis: Inflammation of the prostate, known as prostatitis, can elevate PSA levels. It may result from bacterial infections or other inflammatory factors, causing symptoms such as pelvic pain, discomfort during urination, and flu-like symptoms. Treatment typically involves antibiotics, anti-inflammatory medications, and lifestyle changes.

    It's vital to note that an elevated PSA level alone does not confirm the presence of prostate cancer. Further diagnostic tests, such as a digital rectal exam (DRE), prostate MRI, or a prostate biopsy, are typically required to determine the underlying cause. These tests provide additional information to help differentiate between benign conditions and potential malignancies.

    Additionally, PSA velocity, or the rate at which PSA levels increase over time, can offer critical insights. A rapidly rising PSA may warrant closer monitoring or more aggressive diagnostic measures. By considering both the PSA level and its velocity, Dr Deanne and her team can make more informed decisions regarding patient care.

  • When a raised Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) level is detected, several tests or investigations are typically recommended to further evaluate the cause. The most common initial test is a repeat PSA test to confirm the elevated level. This helps rule out any temporary factors that might have influenced the initial result, such as infections or recent physical activity affecting the prostate.

    Subsequent to confirmation, a digital rectal examination (DRE) is often carried out. This physical examination allows the doctor to feel the prostate gland for any irregularities, such as lumps or hard areas. If abnormalities are detected, or if the PSA level continues to be elevated, imaging tests like a transrectal ultrasound (TRUS) or a multiparametric MRI (mpMRI) may be recommended. These imaging techniques provide detailed pictures of the prostate, helping in the identification of any suspicious areas that may require further attention.

    In cases where more detailed analysis is needed, a prostate biopsy might be performed. This procedure involves taking small samples of prostate tissue to be examined under a microscope. The biopsy can help determine whether cancerous cells are present and evaluate their aggressiveness.

    Collectively, these tests help Dr Deanne in the precise diagnosis and management of conditions related to a raised PSA level, guiding appropriate treatment strategies.

  • The Prostate Cancer Foundation (PCF) offers guidelines for PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) screening to aid in early detection of prostate cancer. They recommend that men discuss PSA screening with their healthcare providers beginning at age 50, or earlier for those with higher risk factors such as a family history of prostate cancer or being of African descent. The PCF emphasises the importance of informed decision-making, highlighting that regular screening can potentially lead to early diagnosis and improved treatment outcomes.

    However, they also acknowledge the possibility of over-diagnosis and over-treatment, advising that men should weigh the benefits and risks with their doctors to make the best choice for their individual health circumstances.

    If PSA is greater than 3, a urologist should be consulted. You can get in touch with our practice here