Healthcare providers use a blood test to measure PSA levels. You may have a digital rectal exam (DRE) together with a PSA test to check for signs of prostate cancer. During a DRE, your provider inserts a gloved finger into the rectum to check for bumps or other irregularities. Depending on the results of your initial test, your provider may want you to repeat the test. PSA levels can change. A second test gives your provider more details about your prostate health.
What happens if my PSA level is elevated? If you have a high PSA level, you will need ongoing PSA tests and DREs so your provider can look for any changes. If the PSA level continues to increase or if your healthcare provider finds a lump during a DRE, you may need other tests, including: Transrectal ultrasound and prostate biopsies. Prostate MRI. Iso PSA or 4Kscore® (more blood tests). A biopsy can tell you definitively if you have prostate cancer. The biopsy results also affect your treatment. For example, if the biopsy shows a lot of cancer cells, you might need more aggressive treatment.
How is prostate cancer treated? Treatment options for prostate cancer include surgery, radiation, brachetherpy, Surgery to remove the prostate (such as a robotic prostatectomy). (internal radiation therapy). High intensity focused ultrasound, cryotherapy, hormone treatment and Chemotherapy. You may continue to have PSA level tests during and after prostate cancer treatment. These tests check that the treatment is working.
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