Prostate BiopsyTest Overview
The
prostate gland is a solid, chestnut-shaped gland in
men that lies just under the bladder and in front of the rectum. (See an
illustration of the
prostate
gland.) It wraps around the part of the
urethra that is attached to the bladder. The prostate
produces
semen (seminal fluid).
During a prostate biopsy, a small sample of prostate tissue is
removed with a needle and examined under a microscope. The needle can be
inserted through the
rectum (called a transrectal biopsy), the
urethra, or the area between the anus and scrotum
(perineum). A transrectal biopsy is the most common
technique used. The tissue taken during the biopsy is checked thoroughly for
cancer cells.
A biopsy is most often done when a blood test shows a high level of
prostate-specific antigen, or PSA (see Prostate-Specific Antigen test). It may
also be done after a
digital rectal exam reveals an enlarged prostate or a
lump.
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