PROSTATE IMAGING

Radiology plays a crucial role in diagnosing, staging, and monitoring prostate cancer, ensuring timely and effective treatment decisions. Prostate cancer develops in the prostate gland, a small organ responsible for producing seminal fluid in males. It is one of the most common cancers among men, particularly those over the age of 50.

Early detection is key to improving outcomes, and radiology provides advanced imaging techniques to achieve this. Prostate MRI is a non-invasive imaging tool that offers detailed visualisation of the prostate, helping to identify abnormalities, detect early-stage cancer, and guide biopsies. MRI is especially valuable in distinguishing between aggressive and non-aggressive tumors, which is critical in determining the best course of treatment while preserving quality of life, including sexual function and bladder control.

For more advanced prostate cancer cases, PET/CT imaging, particularly Ga-68 PSMA scans, offers precise staging by identifying cancer spread within the body. This imaging technique is crucial in assessing recurrent disease when PSA levels rise after treatment, allowing for a more targeted and personalized approach to therapy.

At Apex Radiology, we offer comprehensive prostate imaging services that include both Prostate MRI and Ga-68 PSMA PET/CT scans, providing clinicians and patients with the best tools to combat prostate cancer. Early and accurate detection can lead to better treatment outcomes, and our state-of-the-art imaging technologies ensure that we stay at the forefront of cancer diagnostics.

Cancer Council Fact Sheet

EARLY DETECTION COULD SAVE YOUR LIFE!

We encourage men to stay proactive about their health, annual check-ups and screenings can lead to early diagnosis and a better prognosis. Prostate cancer is treatable, especially when caught in the early stages.

Diagnosis

Prostate cancer is often diagnosed through a combination of methods, including a digital rectal examination (DRE), a blood test called prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test, and imaging tests such as ultrasound, MRI, or a biopsy, which involves collecting a tissue sample from the prostate gland for analysis.

Apex Radiology provides extensive and specialised services dedicated to the unique health care needs of men. Our sub-specialised Radiologists are highly skilled and experienced in men’s imaging and continue to develop their knowledge through supported professional development programs. They work closely with referring practitioners to provide each patient with expert, safe, accurate and individualised care.

Visit our website for more information on men’s imaging, CLICK HERE

THE PROSTATE

The prostate is a small gland about the size of a walnut. It forms part of the male reproductive system. The prostate sits below the bladder and in front of the rectum (the end section of the large bowel). A pair of glands called the seminal vesicles attach to the back of the prostate. The prostate is close to nerves, blood vessels, and muscles that help control erections and urination (the pelvic floor muscles and urinary sphincter).

RISK FACTORS

The exact cause of prostate cancer is not known. Things that can increase the risk of developing prostate cancer include:

older age – over 90% of people diagnosed with prostate cancer are aged 55 and over 4
family history of prostate cancer (see below) – if your father or brother has had prostate cancer before the age of 60, your risk will be at least twice that of others
strong family history of breast or ovarian cancer – particularly cancer caused by a fault in the BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes
race – people of African-American descent have a higher risk.

While prostate cancer is less common if you are under 55, people aged 40–55 may have a higher than average risk of developing prostate cancer later in life if their prostate specific antigen (PSA) test results are higher than the typical range for their age.

PREVENTION

While there is no surefire way to prevent prostate cancer, certain lifestyle factors may reduce the risk. These include maintaining a healthy weight, eating a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, exercising regularly, and discussing the potential benefits and risks of PSA testing with a healthcare provider.

Remember that any concerns about prostate health or potential symptoms should be discussed with a healthcare professional. If prostate cancer is suspected, early detection and appropriate management can significantly improve the chances of successful treatment.

SYMPTOMS

In its early stages, prostate cancer might not cause noticeable symptoms. As the cancer progresses, symptoms might include frequent urination, difficulty starting and stopping urination, weak or interrupted flow of urine, blood in the urine or semen, pain or discomfort during urination or ejaculation, and pain in the lower back, hips, or pelvis.

DIAGNOSTIS

Prostate cancer is often diagnosed through a combination of methods, including a digital rectal examination (DRE), a blood test called prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test, and imaging tests such as ultrasound, MRI, or a biopsy, which involves collecting a tissue sample from the prostate gland for analysis.

MANAGEMENT & TREATMENT

There are different options for managing and treating prostate cancer, and more than one treatment may be suitable for you. Your specialists will let you know your options. The treatment recommended by your doctors will depend on the stage and grade of the prostate cancer as well as your general health, age and preferences.

STAGING

If prostate cancer is diagnosed, it is staged to determine the extent of its spread. Staging helps guide treatment decisions. Stages range from I to IV, with higher stages indicating more advanced cancer.

HEALTH PROFESSIONALS

Your GP will arrange the first tests to assess your symptoms. If these tests do not rule out cancer, you will usually be referred to a specialist, who will arrange further tests.

Prostate cancer is usually diagnosed by a urologist, who will talk to you about your surgical options. You will usually also see a radiation oncologist to discuss radiation therapy and you may be referred to a medical oncologist who will discuss drug treatments.

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