Prostate Biopsy
Test Overview
A
prostate gland biopsy is a test to remove small
samples of prostate tissue to be examined under a microscope. See a picture of
the prostate gland 
.
For a prostate biopsy, a thin needle is inserted through the rectum (transrectal biopsy), through the urethra, or through the area between the anus and scrotum (perineum). A transrectal biopsy is the most common method used. The tissue samples taken during the biopsy are examined for cancer cells.
A biopsy may be done when a blood test shows a high level of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) or after a digital rectal examination finds an abnormal prostate or a lump.
| Author: | Bets Davis, MFA | Last Updated: February 25, 2009 |
| Medical Review: | E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine
Christopher G. Wood, MD, FACS - Urology/Oncology |
|
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