NEWLY DIAGNOSED PROSTATE CANCER GUIDE
Diagnostic Tests Lymph Node Biopsy Lymph nodes are small bean-shaped parts of the immune system. A lymph node biopsy may be done if the doctor thinks the cancer might have spread from the prostate to nearby lymph nodes. Prostate Biopsy For a biopsy (by-op-see), the doctor takes out a small piece of tissue where the cancer seems to be. This tissue is checked for cancer cells. A core needle biopsy is often used to find prostate cancer. Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) Blood Test The PSA is a blood test that is done to see what your PSA level is and how it changes over time. Changes in PSA can be used to detect prostate cancer. Transrectal Ultrasound (TRUS) For this test, a small wand is put into your rectum. It gives off sound waves and picks up the echoes as they bounce off the prostate gland. The echoes are made into a picture on a computer screen. Treatment Adjuvant Adjuvant is a treatment given after the primary treatment to increase the chances of a cure and usually involves chemotherapy or radiation. Neoadjuvant Neoajuvant is a treatment given before the primary treatment and usually involves chemotherapy or radiation. Symptoms/Side Effects Erectile Dysfunction Erectile Dysfunction (ED), also known as impotence, is the inability to have an erection, a common side effect of prostate cancer treatment.
Incontinence Incontinence is lack of voluntary control over urination or bowel movements.
Neuropathy Neuropathy is a nerve problem that causes pain, numbness, tingling, swelling, or muscle weakness in different parts of the body. It usually begins in the hands or feet and may worsen over time. It is a common side effect from platinum-based chemotherapy drugs.
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