Diagnosing Prostate Cancer - Transrectal Ultrasound & Biopsy

Diagnosing Prostate Cancer – Transrectal Ultrasound & Biopsy

June 10, 2023

The prostate gland is a nearly walnut-sized organ located just below the bladder in men. This organ releases a specific type of protein called “prostate-specific antigen”, or PSA. Higher levels of PSA secretion can indicate an abnormality in the prostate region and even may reveal the presence of cancerous cells. Early detection & treatment of prostate cancer can help avoid invasive treatments and provide better outcomes.

Diagnosis of prostate cancer is typically based on the discovery of elevated levels of PSA. One such minimally invasive method of prostate cancer diagnosis is biopsy using Transrectal Ultrasound Scan (TRUS), performed at the Apollo Hospitals, Karnataka, for better diagnostic possibilities. It involves the use of an ultrasound scan of the prostate gland to extract sample tissues from the organ in order to perform further tests in the lab.

What is a TRUS Guided Biopsy?
In Transrectal Ultrasound Scan, ultrasound imaging of the prostate area is taken to obtain a clear image of the area so that the doctors are able to identify the region of unusual cell activity. The ultrasound uses sound waves to bounce back organs inside your body, giving a clear picture of them. This can help detect changes in the prostate gland, including abnormal growth.

During this type of biopsy, the ultrasound probe is inserted through the back passage (the rectum) for ultrasound imaging with a biopsy needle to extract cells as guided by the ultrasound. These are called targeted biopsies. Around 12 to 15 biopsies are taken, which will be then taken in the lab to be examined under the microscope.

Why Does Your Doctor Choose to Go for TRUS Guided Biopsy?
The TRUS-guided biopsy is used to detect the presence of prostate cancer as well as stage the progress of cancer in the prostate gland. Higher levels of PSA secretion (more than four ng/ml) can be a sign of abnormality, even indicating the occurrence of prostate cancer. This makes a prostate biopsy a must for detecting the presence of prostate cancer. Certain imaging and blood tests performed to gather additional information (DRE to find lump/nodule or PSA level test) of the region around the prostate gland may also indicate the need for prostate biopsy.

Prostate cancer exhibits certain symptoms in patients, which may be confused with other symptoms of other diseases. These symptoms include:

Pain or burning while urinating
Difficulty urinating
Frequent urination
Urgency in urination
Urinary incontinence.

To rule out the chances of other diseases and to find cancer cells in the prostate gland, it is important to perform a TRUS-guided biopsy.

Selecting the right diagnostic centre for prostate biopsy is important, as proper detection and appropriate treatment will help in improving outcomes for men. Apollo Hospitals, Karnataka, provide a wide range of diagnostic, treatment, and rehabilitation services for patients with various ailments. Our team of vastly experienced, board-certified oncologists in Bangalore and surgeons offer consultation, diagnostic and treatment services for prompt diagnosis of cancer and apt treatment along with rehabilitation.

Diagnosis of prostate cancer at Apollo Hospitals, Karnataka, through TRUS guided biopsy is one of the many specialities performed in a highly monitored and comfortable environment to ensure the overall well-being and convenience of the patients. Our well-equipped laboratory is dedicated to the prompt detection of cancer in samples. Cutting-edge equipment & machines for cancer treatment and management has helped numerous patients to get cured of cancer at various stages of treatable cancer.

FAQs

Q1. Which is the Best Hospital for Transrectal Ultrasound and Biopsy of the Prostate Gland?
Transrectal ultrasound and biopsy is a diagnostic procedure which has to be properly done in order to obtain accurate results. Apollo Hospitals, Karnataka, is a trusted name for every kind of major and minor diagnosis or treatment service in India. High-end technical equipment to extract samples from the site, which is guided by ultrasound imaging, is used for minimal incision and invasion. Interdisciplinary experts at Apollo in the field of Oncology and Urology handle patients with cancer with utmost care and compassion. The entire medical staff is well-trained to help and guide patients through the stages of rehabilitation to assist them in returning to their normal activities.

Q2. What is the Cost of a Transrectal Ultrasound Biopsy in India?
In India, a transrectal ultrasound biopsy for prostate cancer costs around INR 28,000.

Q3. What Are the Risks of Transrectal Ultrasound Biopsy?
TRUS-guided biopsies are generally safe; however, there may be some complications.