Funding research and education to beat prostate disease
If cancer is suspected
If the results of the tests carried out suggest a diagnosis of prostate cancer, your doctor will refer you to a urologist.
Your urologist may repeat some of the tests that your GP has already carried out. To check whether you do have cancer, they will also perform a biopsy. Approximately two out of three men who have a biopsy will not have prostate cancer.
Biopsy
An ultrasound probe is inserted into the rectum, which guides an automated needle to the prostate. You may be given a local anaesthetic to reduce any discomfort during the biopsy. You may feel a sharp needle prick as 8-12 tiny samples of prostate tissue are taken. These samples are sent to a laboratory for examination under a microscope. You will usually be given antibiotics before and after the procedure and told to continue taking the prescribed antibiotic for several days afterwards.
Side effects of a prostate biopsy
For several weeks after the biopsy, you may notice blood in your urine, semen and/or bowel motions. Urinary infections can sometimes occur after a biopsy. You should contact your doctor if you feel unwell, have shaking attacks and/or a fever, or are having problems urinating.
Biopsy samples are small, so it is possible to miss small cancers. Your doctor may want to monitor your PSA level even if you receive a negative biopsy result. If your PSA level continues to rise, your doctor may request another biopsy.
