How is prostate cancer diagnosed?

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    Last Updated: May 16, 2025

    Prostate cancer is diagnosed through various tests, including a digital rectal exam, a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test, and imaging tests like ultrasound or MRI. A prostate biopsy is then performed to confirm the diagnosis and assess the severity of the cancer.

    A doctor can use different tests to screen for prostate cancer, such as a digital (finger) rectal exam, a prostate-specific antigen (PSA, a protein secreted by prostate cells) blood test, and imaging tests (e.g., ultrasound, magnetic resonance imaging).[1] A prostate biopsy is then used to confirm the presence of prostate cancer and determine the severity of the disease.