DIAGNOSING PROSTATE CANCER If cancer is suspected as a result of a PSA test, DRE, or other factors, further testing is needed. An MRI may be used to determine if a biopsy is needed. A prostate biopsy is the removal of samples of tissue from your prostate with a needle and the help of ultrasound. Exciting research shows that using both MRI and ultrasound can help doctors pinpoint aggressive prostate tumors.
GENETIC & BIOMARKER TESTING There are two different types of genetic tests that can give you and your doctors more information about your cancer and may inform treatment decisions. Genetic testing looks for inherited mutations (passed from parent to child). You may also hear it called germline testing. Genetic testing is done with a simple blood or saliva test. Biomarker testing checks for acquired genetic mutations, and may also be referred to as genomic testing or somatic testing. Biomarker testing is done on the tumor tissue or with a blood test. Both genetic and biomarker testing are recommended for advanced prostate cancer patients. Ask your healthcare team if these tests are right for you.
VETERANS PROSTATE CANCER GUIDE
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