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

Prostate disorders are a concern for many men. Two tests that can be used to assess different aspects of prostate health are ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging or MRI.

Ultrasound is a generally safe and painless imaging procedure. According to Radiology Info, the purposes of ultrasound for the prostate gland include:

• Detect abnormal growths in the prostate
• Detect benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) or enlarged prostate
• Help in the diagnosis of male infertility

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Radiology Info explains that a transrectal approach is used with prostate ultrasound in order to get close and accurate images. This means that a lubricated probe is inserted into the rectum to obtain the images. Ultrasound has several benefits compared with other types of imaging. First, it is relatively inexpensive and provides better images of soft tissue compared with other tests. No ionizing radiation is used, so it can be used as often as needed with no adverse effects. Sometimes, the transrectal ultrasound is used to guide needle aspirations for prostate biopsy since it provides images in real time.

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, according to Mayo Clinic. MRI is safe, however there may be risk associated with sedatives administered during the procedure. Patients with metal implants in the body such as pacemakers, cochlear implants or joint implants should inform their physicians before having an MRI since they can cause problems during the test.

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With regard to the prostate gland, Radiology Info said the primary purpose of MRI is to determine the severity of prostate cancer and to determine if it has spread to other areas. However, it can also be used to evaluate benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) or enlarged prostate, and infections and congenital abnormalities of the prostate gland. Medical News Today said MRI is also helpful for reducing over-treatment of non-life-threatening prostate cancer.

Prostate ultrasound and MRI both have important roles in prostate health and assessing prostate cancer. Your physician can determine which prostate test is most appropriate for you.

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