Our Summary

This research paper looks at whether certain non-cancerous prostate conditions can help predict the development of significant prostate cancer. The study analyzed 377 repeat prostate biopsies from patients who had previously shown no signs of cancer. The researchers found that one of these conditions, proliferative inflammatory atrophy (PIA), was associated with a lower risk of developing significant prostate cancer. The other conditions they looked at, including atypical small acinar proliferation (ASAP) and high-grade prostatic intraepithelial neoplasia (mHGPIN), did not seem to predict a higher risk of cancer. The findings suggest that PIA could be used in a prediction model to help identify patients at lower risk of prostate cancer, potentially reducing the need for repeat biopsies.

FAQs

  1. What is the primary focus of this research on prostate biopsy?
  2. How does the condition called proliferative inflammatory atrophy (PIA) impact the risk of developing significant prostate cancer?
  3. Can atypical small acinar proliferation (ASAP) and high-grade prostatic intraepithelial neoplasia (HGPIN) predict a higher risk of prostate cancer according to the study?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about prostate biopsy is to discuss the potential risks and benefits of the procedure. This includes understanding that while a biopsy can provide important information about the presence of cancer, it may also come with risks such as bleeding, infection, and discomfort. It is important for patients to ask questions and have a clear understanding of what to expect before undergoing a prostate biopsy.

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 (DRE) findings, or those with a family history of prostate cancer. Additionally, patients with symptoms such as frequent urination, difficulty urinating, or blood in the urine may also be recommended for a prostate biopsy. In some cases, patients with non-cancerous prostate conditions such as PIA, ASAP, or mHGPIN may also be recommended for a biopsy to further evaluate their risk of developing significant prostate cancer.

Timeline

Before the prostate biopsy:

  • Patient may experience symptoms such as frequent urination, urgency, difficulty urinating, or blood in urine
  • Patient may undergo a digital rectal exam (DRE) to check for abnormalities in the prostate
  • Patient may have a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test to measure levels of a protein produced by the prostate

During the prostate biopsy:

  • Patient is typically given antibiotics to prevent infection
  • Patient may be given sedation or local anesthesia to numb the area
  • A thin needle is inserted into the prostate to collect tissue samples for analysis
  • Patient may experience discomfort or mild pain during the procedure

After the prostate biopsy:

  • Patient may experience some bleeding, blood in urine, or blood in semen for a few days
  • Patient may be advised to avoid strenuous activities for a few days
  • Patient may need to follow up with their healthcare provider for the biopsy results and further treatment options
  • Patient may experience anxiety or stress while waiting for the biopsy results

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What is the purpose of a prostate biopsy and why is it being recommended for me?
  2. What are the potential risks and side effects of a prostate biopsy?
  3. How should I prepare for the biopsy procedure?
  4. How long will it take to get the results of the biopsy?
  5. What do the results of the biopsy mean for my overall health and treatment options?
  6. Are there any alternative tests or procedures that could provide similar information?
  7. Are there any specific factors or conditions, such as PIA, that may affect my risk of developing significant prostate cancer?
  8. How often should I have follow-up screenings or biopsies, based on the results of this biopsy?
  9. Are there any lifestyle changes or treatments that could help reduce my risk of prostate cancer, based on the findings of the biopsy?
  10. Are there any additional tests or consultations that I should consider based on the results of the biopsy?

Reference

Authors: Morote J, Schwartzman I, Borque A, Esteban LM, Celma A, Roche S, de Torres IM, Mast R, Semidey ME, Regis L, Santamaría A, Planas J, Trilla E. Journal: Urol Oncol. 2021 Jul;39(7):432.e11-432.e19. doi: 10.1016/j.urolonc.2020.10.016. Epub 2020 Nov 5. PMID: 33160846