Clinical diagnosis of prostate cancer.
BACKGROUND
The clinical diagnosis of localized prostate carcinoma in the asymptomatic male has been based on a careful digital rectal examination (DRE).


METHODS
The DRE, prostate specific antigen (PSA), transrectal ultrasonography (TRUS), prostate needle biopsy (PNB), and other modalities are examined for their role in prostate cancer diagnosis.


RESULTS
Up to 20% of localized prostatic cancer is still diagnosed "retrospectively" on transurethral resection (TURP) for clinically benign disease and prostatism. The role of fine-needle aspiration (FNA), flow cytometric study (FCM), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in the diagnosis of prostate cancer is limited.


CONCLUSIONS
Those men older than 50 years of age who have lower tract symptoms, either obstructive or irritative, or who have abnormal serum levels of PSA, regardless of DRE findings, are advised to undergo TRUS with ultrasound-guided PNB.
Schmidt
J D
JD
University of California, San Diego Medical Center 92103-8897.
D000230:Adenocarcinoma / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000276:immunology; D000951:Antigens, Neoplasm / Q000378:metabolism; D014408:Biomarkers, Tumor / Q000097:blood; D001707:Biopsy, Needle; D005434:Flow Cytometry; D006801:Humans; D008279:Magnetic Resonance Imaging; D008297:Male; D010173:Palpation; D011467:Prostate / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000276:immunology / Q000473:pathology; D017430:Prostate-Specific Antigen; D011471:Prostatic Neoplasms / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000276:immunology; D012007:Rectum; D014463:Ultrasonography
D000951:Antigens, Neoplasm; D014408:Biomarkers, Tumor; D017430:Prostate-Specific Antigen