The most common prostate cancer tests have been the PSA (prostate specific antigen), the rectal ultrasound and the biopsy.
Recently it has come to be better understood that the PSA is more a measure of prostate gland inflammation and not so much of a cancer test. However, depending on its blood level, it can be used as a guide to determine the need for further testing. If the PSA is extremely high, it is much more likely to be indicating the presence of cancer.
The “gold standard” to tell if an area is cancerous, is the biopsy. That is taking a tissue sample and sending it to the lab for analysis. Usually this is done through the rectal wall via the rectum with a large needle.
The ultrasound is a test that uses high frequency sound waves to be able to “see” into the tissue and determine where the abnormal tissue is located within the gland and guide the path of the needle.
There are two other tests that are much less invasive and can be used to determine if cancer is present. They are both blood tests that are easily performed in a doctors’ office or in a lab.
When a cell becomes cancerous, it starts to secrete an enzyme called nagalase. This enzyme is capable of “cloaking” the cancer cells from detection by the immune system. It is the reason that someone may have a very strong immune system and still have a tumor growing in them.
The Oncoblot test is relatively new to the scene. It is a bit more expensive and takes several weeks to get results but it can tell you if you have cancer and what organ it originates from. Also used to evaluate if your treatment is being effective.
Reno Integrative Medical Center
6110 Plumas St. Ste. B, Reno, Nevada 89519
Phone: 775- 829-1009 1-800-994-1009