Saturday, January 21, 2012

Prostate Cancer

Prostate cancer is one of the most common types of cancer in men. Prostate cancer usually grows slowly and initially remains confined to the prostate gland, where it may not cause serious harm. While some types of prostate cancer grow slowly and may need minimal or no treatment, other types are aggressive and can spread quickly.
Symptoms, may include any or more of the following
  • Trouble urinating

  • Decreased force in the stream of urine

  • Blood in your urine

  • Blood in your semen

  • Swelling in your legs

  • Discomfort in the pelvic area

  • Bone pain


  •  Prostate cancer can spread to nearby organs or travel through your bloodstream or lymphatic system to your bones or other organs.
    Most prostate cancer is discovered through routine screening.
    Prostate screening tests might include:
    • Digital rectal exam (DRE). . If your doctor finds any abnormalities in the texture, shape or size of your gland, you may need more tests.
    • Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test. A blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm and analyzed for PSA, a substance that's naturally produced by your prostate gland. It's normal for a small amount of PSA to enter your bloodstream. However, if a higher than normal level is found, it may be an indication of prostate infection, inflammation, enlargement or cancer.
    Prostate cancer can be diagnosed by a prostate biopsy. further evaluation is required to assess, the spread of the cancer.
    Test done include,
  • Bone scan

  • Ultrasound

  • Computerized tomography (CT) scan

  • Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)

  • Treatment depends on the stage of lesion and spread to other organs/ organ systems, and may include alone or a combination of Radiation Thjerapy / Hormonal therapy/ Surgery.
    Ref : Mayo Clinic

    No comments:

    Disclaimer

    The opinions expressed in this blog must not be considered in lieu of medical advice. They represent opinions of the blog writer and resources. The articles are for information purpose only, and a formal medical advice should be sought before undergoing any treatment.