Our Summary

This study looks at the relationship between negative biopsy results and the progression of prostate cancer in patients who are under active surveillance. Active surveillance means that instead of immediately treating the cancer, doctors monitor it closely to see if it gets worse.

Researchers used data from various databases and analyzed 13 previous studies that included a total of 17,900 patients. They found that negative results from an initial confirmatory biopsy were associated with a lower risk of the cancer getting worse or changing in nature (termed reclassification and upgrading). The same was true for further follow-up biopsies: negative results were linked to a lower chance of the cancer getting worse.

In simple terms, if the biopsy results were negative, it generally meant that the cancer was less likely to progress or change. As a result, the researchers suggest that patients with negative biopsy results who are on active surveillance should have regular check-ups to monitor their prostate cancer closely.

FAQs

  1. What is the relationship between negative biopsy results and the progression of prostate cancer?
  2. What does active surveillance entail in the context of prostate cancer?
  3. What is the significance of negative biopsy results for patients under active surveillance for prostate cancer?

Doctor’s Tip

It is important to follow up with your doctor regularly and stay on top of your recommended screenings and tests to monitor the status of your prostate cancer. Remember that early detection and close monitoring can greatly impact your treatment options and overall prognosis. Don’t hesitate to ask your doctor any questions or voice any concerns you may have about your prostate health.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for a prostate biopsy include those with elevated levels of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) in their blood, abnormal digital rectal exam findings, or other signs or symptoms of prostate cancer. Additionally, patients who have a family history of prostate cancer or other risk factors may also be recommended for a biopsy. It is important for patients to discuss their individual risk factors and concerns with their healthcare provider to determine if a prostate biopsy is appropriate for them.

Timeline

Before prostate biopsy:

  • Patient may have experienced symptoms such as frequent urination, blood in urine or semen, pain in the back, hips, or pelvis, or difficulty urinating
  • Patient may have undergone a digital rectal exam (DRE) or prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test to assess the likelihood of prostate cancer
  • Patient may have discussed the risks and benefits of a prostate biopsy with their healthcare provider
  • Patient may have received instructions on how to prepare for the biopsy, such as fasting or taking antibiotics

After prostate biopsy:

  • Patient may experience some discomfort or pain in the prostate area, as well as blood in urine or semen for a few days
  • Patient may need to rest and avoid strenuous activities for a short period of time
  • Patient may receive the results of the biopsy, which could be positive (indicating the presence of cancer) or negative (indicating no cancer)
  • If the biopsy results are negative, the patient may be placed on active surveillance and monitored closely for any changes in the cancer
  • If the biopsy results are positive, the patient may need further tests and treatment options discussed with their healthcare provider.

What to Ask Your Doctor

Some questions a patient should ask their doctor about prostate biopsy include:

  1. What is the purpose of the biopsy?
  2. How will the biopsy be performed?
  3. What are the potential risks and complications of the biopsy procedure?
  4. How long will it take to get the biopsy results?
  5. What do different biopsy results (positive, negative) mean for my treatment plan?
  6. How often will I need to undergo follow-up biopsies or other tests?
  7. What are the chances of the cancer progressing or changing if the biopsy results are negative?
  8. What are the treatment options available if the biopsy results are positive?
  9. Are there any lifestyle changes I can make to help manage my prostate health?
  10. Are there any alternative or complementary therapies that may be beneficial in conjunction with traditional treatments?

Reference

Authors: Bahri RA, Mohammadi A, Yar EZ, Rezayat M, Heshmat R, Aghamir SMK. Journal: Prostate. 2025 Apr;85(5):482-491. doi: 10.1002/pros.24851. Epub 2025 Jan 12. PMID: 39800984