There are several methods to check for the presence of prostate cancer. The simplest is the digital rectal examination, in which a gloved finger is inserted into the rectum, through which an enlarged prostate can be felt.
Blood tests are the next step, in particular to measure levels of a protein called Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA). PSA may be raised in prostate cancer although other conditions can also cause a high level of PSA. PSA is also used to monitor a man's response to treatment (levels fall with successful treatment).
If cancer is suspected then a sample of cells, or a biopsy, may be taken from the prostate and examined in the laboratory. More sophisticated tests including a bone scan, ultrasound, CT or MRI may be done to check whether the cancer has spread and to see how well the urinary system is working.
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