Can a blood test detect prostate cancer?

The examination of prostate cancer is relatively simple and can be divided into initial screening and detailed examination. Initial screening is similar to a physical examination, which is to see if you have prostate cancer. The classic method is the "triple", namely rectal examination, PSA (serum prostate cancer specific antigen) and transrectal ultrasound examination. The method is very simple, but of great significance.

Let’s take a look at three ways for men to check for prostate cancer.

1. Serum PSA test: Under normal circumstances, the PSA in the blood is lower than 4 micrograms/ml. It increases when suffering from prostate cancer and other prostate diseases. This is currently the most sensitive indicator for screening prostate cancer. If the PSA level is higher than 4 micrograms/ml, it should be rechecked, and the rectal examination will not be performed during the recheck. If it is still elevated and inflammation or other factors are excluded, the possibility of prostate cancer is suspected, and a prostate puncture biopsy should be performed. This is a common method for prostate cancer examination.

2. Transrectal ultrasound examination: The ultrasound probe is placed into the rectum like a rectal examination. This method of prostate cancer examination has an effect of increasing serum PSA. Therefore, it should be performed after blood is drawn. Transrectal ultrasound examination can see the nodules of the lesion, or the lesion that the rectal examination did not find.

3. Rectal examination: Use the index finger to touch the prostate. If prostate nodules are found, prostate cancer is suspected. Even if there are no symptoms, further prostate biopsy should be performed to confirm the diagnosis. This is a common method for prostate cancer examination.