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Imaging Tests
Imaging tests may be helpful in diagnosing prostate cancer, pinpointing its location, and determining how advanced it is (its stage). Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), for example, can be helpful in staging. This test uses a magnetic field to produce pictures of structures inside the body. Another imaging test, transrectal ultrasonography (TRUS) uses sound waves to create pictures. However, doctors generally use it to guide a biopsy, not for screening or diagnosis.
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What is magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)?
This imaging technique, which uses a powerful magnet and a computer to generate pictures of the body’s organs and tissues, can be used to diagnose prostate cancer or pinpoint the tumor’s location.
Read more »What is transrectal ultrasonography (TRUS)?
Transrectal ultrasonography (TRUS) can create images of the prostate gland using sound waves. Doctors may recommend TRUS when they suspect prostate cancer based on an abnormal DRE or an elevated PSA.
Read more »Getting a closer look at prostate cancer with molecular imaging
Molecular imaging may help determine the location and extent of cancer — and point to the best treatment — especially metastatic cancers too small to be detected by CT or MRI scanning.
Read more »Improved magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may aid detection of prostate cancer
Dr. Neil Rofsky, of Harvard’s Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, discusses MRI technology, which patients might benefit from it, and the relative advantages and disadvantages of MRI as compared with other imaging modalities.
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