Grading, using the Gleason score and/or grade group, indicates how quickly the tumor may grow and spread. The grade is the description of the tumor based on how abnormal the cells look under the microscope.
RISK GROUP GRADE GROUP GLEASON SCORE
DESCRIPTION
Gleason score cannot be determined
Gleason X
The tumor tissue is well differentiated, less aggressive and likely to grow more slowly The tumor tissue is moderately differentiated, moderately aggressive and likely to grow but may not spread quickly The tumor tissue is poorly differentiated or undifferentiated, highly aggressive and likely to grow faster and spread
Low/ Very Low
Grade Group 1
Gleason 6 (or less)
Intermediate (Favorable or Unfavorable)
Grade Group 2 Grade Group 3
Gleason 3 + 4 = 7 Gleason 4 + 3 = 7
High/ Very High
Grade Group 4 Grade Group 5
Gleason 8 Gleason 9–10
TREATMENT Take the time to get educated on all available treatment options and potential negative side effects to make the best decision for you. The best treatment for one person may not be the best for another. The right treatment for you depends on many factors including: • Age • Gleason score (grade) of the tumor • Stage of prostate cancer • Risk category • Other health problems, such as heart disease, diabetes, or other chronic conditions • Your personal preferences Prostate cancer is a disease that can be treated by several different types of medical specialists. And the treatment chosen may mean that the doctor who diagnosed your cancer is not the one doing the majority of your treatment. You may meet with several doctors before you make a final decision about treatment.
VETERANS PROSTATE CANCER GUIDE
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