A prostate biopsy is a medical procedure in which samples of tissue are removed from the prostate and then examined from the male organ that produces fluids which nourish and transport sperm.
Performed by a urologist, the tissue samples that are collected are checked for cell abnormalities under a microscope which are signs of prostate cancer.
If cancer is evident, the next step is to determine which stage the cancer is in and the best treatment options.
Preparing for an Exam
In order to prepare for a prostate biopsy, your urologist may ask you to adhere to some guidelines:
- Providing a urine sample to analyze it for a possible urinary tract infection, since this may postpone a the biopsy if one is detected and course of antibiotics must be taken
- Cease medications a few days before that can cause bleeding, which include aspirin, warfarin, ibuprofen and some herbal supplements
- A home enema prior to biopsy appointment
- A course of antibiotics 30-60 minutes before prostate biopsy to prevent possible infection from the procedure
Treatment After Evaluation
Samples for a prostate biopsy can be collected in a few ways, and may involve the following:
- A needle is passed through the rectum wall, also known as transrectal biopsy, the most common way a prostate biopsy is performed
- A needle is inserted through an area of skin between the scrotum and anus, also known as a transperineal biopsy, with a CT or MRI scan used in this procedure.
A doctor specializing in cancer diagnosis will evaluate the samples once testing has been completed, with a pathologist on hand to advise on if the removed tissue is cancerous, and if so, how aggressive treatment should be and when it should start.
Your primary care physician will explain the results to you.
