Biopsy

Biopsy

In a biopsy, samples of tissue are removed from the body. For a biopsy of the prostate, a small needle is directed – by an ultrasound probe in the rectum – into the prostate (this is called transrectal ultrasound or TRUS). Transrectal biopsy. An ultrasound probe is inserted into the rectum to show where the tumor is. Then a needle is inserted through the rectum into the prostate to remove tissue from the prostate. The probe is the size and shape of a middle finger. It shows the shape and condition of the prostate on a screen like a television. Six to eight samples of tissue are taken from different parts of the prostate and sent for examination under a microscope. The biopsy is important to help you and your doctor male a treatment decision.

The doctor will take into consideration how many of the tissue samples, if any show cancer, and how the malignant cells appear under the microscope. This is graded by what is known as the Gleason score. A Gleason score between 1 and 4 probably indicates a very good outlook (prognosis). A score between 4 and 7 is moderate, and in general treatment is needed. A score from 8 to 10 means are more aggressive (quickly growing) cancer.