Our Summary

This study looked at two different methods of taking a biopsy of the prostate in patients who had previously had a negative biopsy. The methods were the traditional transrectal biopsy and a newer method called cognitive registration biopsy.

The researchers found that the cognitive registration biopsy method, when combined with a specific type of MRI scan, was 3.5 times more successful at diagnosing prostate cancer than the traditional method. Other factors that increased the likelihood of a positive diagnosis were being older, having a suspicious digital rectal examination result, and having a certain type of nodule on the prostate.

In simpler terms, the study suggests that using this new biopsy method, along with a specific MRI scan, can greatly improve the chances of accurately diagnosing prostate cancer in patients who previously tested negative.

FAQs

  1. What are the two methods of taking a biopsy of the prostate discussed in the study?
  2. Which method of biopsy was found to be more successful in diagnosing prostate cancer?
  3. Apart from the biopsy method, what other factors increased the likelihood of a positive prostate cancer diagnosis?

Doctor’s Tip

Therefore, if your doctor recommends a prostate biopsy, it may be beneficial to ask about the cognitive registration biopsy method and whether combining it with a specific MRI scan could increase the accuracy of the results. It’s important to discuss all options with your doctor to ensure you receive the most accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for a prostate biopsy include those with:

  1. Elevated prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels
  2. Abnormal digital rectal examination results
  3. Family history of prostate cancer
  4. Previous negative biopsy results but persistent clinical suspicion of prostate cancer
  5. Presence of suspicious nodules on the prostate
  6. Older age

It is important for healthcare providers to carefully evaluate each patient’s individual risk factors and symptoms before recommending a prostate biopsy.

Timeline

Before the biopsy:

  1. Patient may experience symptoms such as frequent urination, difficulty urinating, blood in urine or semen, or pain in the pelvic area.
  2. Patient may undergo a digital rectal examination to check for abnormalities in the prostate.
  3. Patient may undergo a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test to measure levels of a protein produced by the prostate gland.

During the biopsy:

  1. Patient will be informed about the procedure and any potential risks or side effects.
  2. Patient may be given antibiotics to reduce the risk of infection.
  3. Patient will be positioned on their side with knees drawn up to the chest.
  4. Local anesthesia will be administered to numb the area.
  5. A thin needle will be inserted into the prostate gland to collect tissue samples for analysis.

After the biopsy:

  1. Patient may experience some discomfort, bleeding, or blood in urine or semen for a few days.
  2. Patient may need to take antibiotics to prevent infection.
  3. Patient will receive the biopsy results and discuss treatment options with their healthcare provider, if necessary.
  4. Patient may undergo further tests or procedures based on the biopsy results.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the risks and benefits of undergoing a prostate biopsy?
  2. What is the difference between a traditional transrectal biopsy and a cognitive registration biopsy?
  3. How does a specific type of MRI scan improve the accuracy of the biopsy results?
  4. How likely is it that the biopsy will accurately diagnose prostate cancer?
  5. What factors increase the likelihood of a positive diagnosis?
  6. Are there any alternative methods for diagnosing prostate cancer?
  7. What can I expect during and after the biopsy procedure?
  8. How long does it typically take to receive the biopsy results?
  9. What are the potential complications or side effects of a prostate biopsy?
  10. What are the next steps if the biopsy results come back positive for prostate cancer?

Reference

Authors: Barbas Bernardos G, Herranz Amo F, de Miguel Campos E, Luis Cardo A, Herranz Arriero A, Cancho Gil MJ, Caño Velasco J, Jara Rascón J, Mayor de Castro J, Hernández Fernández C. Journal: Actas Urol Esp (Engl Ed). 2019 Jun;43(5):228-233. doi: 10.1016/j.acuro.2018.06.010. Epub 2019 Mar 1. PMID: 30833102