Diagnostic Services 

The best way to detect prostate cancer in its early stages is with regular digital prostate examinations and PSA blood tests. Because most malignant prostate tumors originate in the part of the gland nearest the rectum, many cancers can be detected during routine rectal examinations. Many doctors recommend an annual rectal exam, supplemented by a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test, starting at age 50 for most men.  If routine screening arouses suspicion and/or PSA levels are elevated, a doctor may perform additional tests.

At the Bennett Cancer Center, patients have access to the most advanced diagnostic tools available:

Biopsy: Guided by ultrasound images, the doctor inserts a needle into the prostate and extracts small slivers of tissue from the suspicious area. Sometimes biopsies are instead obtained through a cystoscope, a narrow telescope passed through the urethra. A pathologist then studies the sample under a microscope to determine whether cancer cells are present.

Computed Tomography (CT) scan: CT imaging combines special x-ray equipment with sophisticated computers to produce multiple images or pictures of the inside of the body. These cross-sectional images of the area being studied can then be examined on a computer monitor or printed. CT imaging is one of the best and fastest tools for studying the chest, abdomen and pelvis because it provides detailed, cross-sectional views of all types of tissue.

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan: MRI is a noninvasive way for your doctor to examine your organs, tissues and skeletal system. It produces high-resolution images that help diagnose a variety of problems and may be used to detect tumors or abnormalities in your ovaries.

Positron emission tomography (PET) scan: A PET scan is an effective way for your doctor to examine the chemical activity in certain parts of your body, which may help detect abnormalities in those areas. PET scans may be useful in determining the extent of spread of certain cancers, assessing how the cancer responds to treatment, and determining if the cancer has recurred. 

X-ray: X-rays are diagnostic tests that use invisible electromagnetic energy beams to produce images of internal tissues, bones, and organs on film. X-rays may be taken of any part of the body to detect a tumor (or cancer).

For more information or to make an appointment please call
1-877-233-WELL (9355).