Prostate Cancer

Types of Prostate Cancer

Prostate cancer is typically classified into different types based on how the cancer cells appear under a microscope. The two main types of prostate cancer are:

• Adenocarcinoma: This is the most common type of prostate cancer, accounting for approximately 95% of all cases. Adenocarcinoma starts in the gland cells of the prostate and tends to grow slowly, but some prostate cancers grow and metastasize quickly.

• Small Cell Carcinoma: This is a rare and aggressive type of prostate cancer that starts in the neuroendocrine cells of the prostate. It tends to grow and spread quickly and may require different treatment approaches compared to adenocarcinoma.

In addition to these two main types, there are other rare types of prostate cancer, such as transitional cell cancer, sarcomas, and small cell neuroendocrine carcinoma. However, adenocarcinoma and small cell carcinoma are the primary focus of diagnosis and treatment.

Early Detection and Positive Outcomes

Early detection and positive outcomes are crucial in prostate cancer patients. Regular screening and access to high-quality care are vital for patients with this disease. Understanding the facts is a powerful weapon in this fight.

When a definitive diagnosis of prostate cancer is needed, a prostate biopsy is performed, where tissue samples are thoroughly examined. This is where the Gleason score or ISUP grade comes into play, an essential assessment measure for the aggressiveness of the cancer.

Fortunately, there are various treatment options available, ranging from active surveillance to surgery, radiation therapy, hormonal treatment, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and targeted therapy. These versatile options offer a range of strategies to effectively combat prostate cancer and promote positive outcomes.

Current Diagnostic Pathway for Prostate Cancer

Soteria’s animation illustrates the current standard diagnostic path for diagnosing prostate cancer. To learn how to incorporate MRI-guided biopsies into your diagnostic process, explore our educational webinars.

Prostate Issues

Prostate issues can encompass a wide range of conditions and problems related to the prostate gland, a small walnut-shaped organ that plays a vital role in the male reproductive system. Some common prostate issues include:

• Prostatitis:
  Prostatitis is the inflammation of the prostate gland and can be caused by infection or other factors. It can lead to symptoms like pain, discomfort, urinary problems, and sometimes fever.

• Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH):
  BPH is a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland that occurs with age. It can cause urinary symptoms such as frequent urination, difficulty starting and stopping urination, and a weak urine stream.

• Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) Elevation:
  Elevated PSA levels in the blood may be an indicator of prostate issues. While an increase in PSA can be caused by conditions other than cancer, it often prompts further evaluation to rule out prostate cancer.

• Prostate Cancer:
  Prostate cancer is the development of cancerous cells within the prostate gland. It is one of the most common cancers in men. Symptoms may include difficulty urinating, blood in the urine or semen, pain in the lower back or pelvis, and erectile dysfunction.

• Ejaculatory Problems:
  Some men may experience issues related to ejaculation, such as premature ejaculation, delayed ejaculation, or painful ejaculation, which can be linked to prostate issues or other underlying conditions.