Prostate Conditions

Prostate Conditions We Treat

Prostate Cancer – Aside from skin cancer, prostate cancer is the most common cancer affecting men. Approximately one in nine men can expect to be diagnosed with prostate cancer during their lifetime. Prostate cancer is responsible for death in roughly one out of every 40 men. Due to its prevalence, serious nature, and common confusion with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH or prostate enlargement) and prostatitis, regular professional prostate examinations may be considered an essential part of your routine healthcare plan beginning at age 50 (earlier for those with known risk factors).

Symptoms of Prostate Cancer

Prostate cancer typically has no symptoms until it has progressed quite far. When symptoms are present, they tend to be similar to those of BPH and may include dull localized pain, urinary discomfort and frequency, painful ejaculation, and blood in the urine. For this reason, you are strongly advised to speak with your doctor about the importance of prostate screening. To help determine if you should have a screening for prostate cancer, you can complete the PSA Screening Questionnaire provided courtesy of The Official Foundation of the American Urological Association.

Prostate Screening

Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) Test – This blood test measures the amount of prostate-specific antigen protein.

Digital Rectal Examination (DRE) Test – This simple exam allows your doctor to manually check the prostate. Because the prostate is an internal organ in close proximity to the rectum, it is best examined by inserting a gloved, lubricated finger into the rectum. Any lumps, unusually hard or soft areas, and/or abnormalities can be felt in this manner. No preparation is required for the test. You may expect to feel mild pressure/discomfort briefly during the procedure.

Transperineal Prostate Biopsy – Precision needle biopsy of the prostate via the perineal route

Prostate ultrasound and other diagnostic procedures may also be used to screen for prostate cancer.

Benign Prostatic Hypertrophy (BPH or Enlarged Prostate) – As you age, it is expected that your prostate will enlarge. It is normal and cannot be prevented. Despite this, the increase in size may cause your prostate to press on the urethra (the tube that allows urine to flow from your body). This can result in symptoms including difficult urination, increased urgency and/or frequency of urination (especially at night), weak/intermittent urine stream, dribbling following urination, and/or inability to fully empty the bladder.

Prostatitis – Swelling and inflammation of the prostate gland. Causes of this condition may include injury, certain sexually transmitted infections, and bacterial infections from the urinary tract, rectum, and lymphatic system. Symptoms may be absent entirely, occur suddenly, or be chronic and may include pain, burning, and frequent urination, painful ejaculation, and fever/chills.