Prostate Testing: What You Need to Know About MRI and Biopsy

Prostate cancer is the second-most common cancer affecting American men. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and biopsy are two tests that are used commonly in the evaluation of prostate cancer.

Prostate biopsy and MRI are used for slightly different purposes. The biopsy is used to detect the presence of cancer while a prostate MRI is used to check for spread of the cancer beyond the prostate gland, says the American Cancer Society.

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Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a noninvasive imaging procedure that uses a strong magnetic field and radio waves to create detailed images of tissues and organs in the body. MRIs can produce 3-D images that help physicians view areas of interest from different vantage points.

With regard to the prostate gland, Radiology Info says that the primary purpose of an MRI is the evaluation of prostate cancer. However, it can also be used to evaluate benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) or enlarged prostate, and infections and congenital abnormalities of the prostate gland. It is a safe procedure, however there may be risk associated with any sedatives that could be used. In addition, metal implants in the body such as pacemakers, cochlear implants, or joint implants can malfunction or cause problems during an MRI.

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In a prostate biopsy, a fine needle is used to collect actual tissue samples from the prostate gland and the cells are examined under a microscope to check for cancer cells. Physicians may order a prostate biopsy if results from a blood test or a digital rectal exam (DRE) indicate a patient could have prostate cancer, says the American Cancer Society.

According to American Cancer Society, patients are usually given an antibiotic to take prior to and for a few days after a prostate biopsy to reduce the risk of infection. It is also common for patients to experience small amounts of blood coming from the rectum or in the urine stream or semen after the procedure.

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