Disorders of the prostate gland are a concern for many men. Prostate ultrasound and biopsy are two diagnostic tests that are used commonly to check prostate health.
In general, ultrasound is a painless and very safe imaging procedure.
According to Radiology Info, the purpose of a prostate ultrasound is to:
• Detect disorders of the prostate
• Detect benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) or enlarged prostate
• Detect an abnormal growth
• Help in the diagnosis of male infertility
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In order to get accurate images of the prostate gland, the ultrasound is transrectal, explains Radiology Info. The imaging probe is lubricated and inserted into the rectum to obtain the appropriate images.
There are many benefits of ultrasound imaging. First, it is relatively inexpensive and can provide clearer images of soft tissue compared to other imaging methods. It uses no ionizing radiation, so it is very safe to use as often as medically necessary. Finally, since ultrasound provides imaging in real time, the transrectal ultrasound can help to guide needle aspirations for prostate biopsy.
In a prostate biopsy, actual tissue samples are taken from the prostate gland to check for cancer cells. The prostate biopsy is usually ordered after results from a blood test or a digital rectal exam indicate a patient could have prostate cancer.
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According to the Mayo Clinic, there are three different methods for performing a prostate biopsy:
• A needle is passed through the wall of the rectum, sometimes guided by ultrasound.
• A needle is passed through the tip of the penis.
• A needle is passed through the perineum, or skin between the anus and the scrotum.
The most common risk associated with prostate biopsy is infection that needs to be treated with antibiotics, Mayo Clinic said.
Cedars-Sinai Hospital also advises patients that it is normal to experience some discomfort after the procedure for up to two days. Patients may also experience small amounts of blood coming from the rectum or in the urine or semen after the procedure.
Prostate ultrasound and biopsy are used for slightly different diagnostic purposes, but each test has an important role in prostate health. Your physician can determine which prostate test is most appropriate for you.
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