How is prostate cancer diagnosed?

Before diving into the diagnostic stages, find out what symptoms to look out for in our guide : What are the symptoms of prostate cancer?

Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers in men, particularly after the age of 50. If you are experiencing symptoms such as urinary problems, or simply wish to undergo preventive screening, it is essential to understand the key steps involved in making an accurate diagnosis. Here’s a complete guide to the prostate cancer diagnosis process.

An abnormal psa level should lead to a consultation with a urologist.

The importance of early diagnosis

Prostate cancer is often asymptomatic in its early stages. Early diagnosis enables :

Rapid care.
Reduced risk of complications.
A wider choice of effective treatments.

If you experience symptoms such as difficulty in urinating, frequent urination at night or pelvic pain, it is vital to consult a specialist.

Steps in diagnosing prostate cancer

Initial consultation with a urologist

Analysis of symptoms: The urologist will ask questions about your family history, your lifestyle and your symptoms.
Assessment of risk factors: Age, heredity, ethnic origin and pre-existing medical conditions.

Clinical examination: rectal examination

This quick, painless examination allows the doctor to palpate the prostate via the rectum to detect any abnormalities (induration), enlargement).
Although uncomfortable for some, it remains a key screening tool.

Biological tests: PSA assay

PSA (Prostate Specific Antigen) is a protein produced by the prostate gland.
A high level may indicate a problem: inflammation, benign hypertrophy or cancer.
This test is often used in addition to the digital rectal examination (DRE).

Medical imaging to confirm anomalies

Multiparametric MRI:
- Advanced imaging to visualise the prostate and identify suspicious areas.
- It is particularly useful for guiding biopsies.
Transrectal ultrasound :
- Used to measure the size of the prostate and detect abnormalities.

Prostate biopsy: the definitive examination

If any abnormalities are detected, a biopsy is performed.
This involves taking samples of prostate tissue for laboratory analysis.
The results confirm the presence of cancer and determine its aggressiveness (Gleason score).

What to do after a diagnosis

Once the diagnosis has been made, several stages follow :

Determine the stage of the cancer (localised or metastatic).
Discuss treatment options tailored to your situation (surgery, radiotherapy, hormone therapy, etc.).

When should you go for screening?

From the age of 50: annual consultation for men with no risk factors.
From the age of 40-45: If you have a family history of prostate cancer or if you belong to a high-risk population (men of African origin, for example).
If you experience unusual urinary symptoms, even if you are younger.

Conclusion

Prostate cancer may be silent in its early stages, but signs such as urinary problems, pain or blood in the urine should be taken seriously. Early detection is essential to improve the chances of treatment and cure.

To find out more, or to consult a specialist, book an appointment at the Colmar Urology Center. We’re here to support you at every stage of your healthcare journey.