Prostate Cancer : Tests

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A rectal exam often reveals an enlarged prostate with a hard, irregular surface. A number of tests may be done to confirm the diagnosis of prostate cancer. PSA test may be high, although non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate can also increase ...
Source:ADAM
Date:September 11, 2006
Prostate cancer is a disease where cells of the prostate become abnormal and start to grow uncontrollably, forming tumors.
Source:Gale Encyclopedia of Cancer
Although prostate cancer may be very slow-growing, it can be quite aggressive, especially in younger men. When the disease is slow-growing, it may go undetected. Because it may take many years for the cancer to develop, many men with the disease a...
Source:Gale Encyclopedia of Genetic Disorders Part II
Although prostate cancer may be very slow-growing, it can be quite aggressive, especially in younger men. When the disease is slow-growing, it may often go undetected. Because it may take many years for the cancer to develop, many men with the dis...
Source:Gale Encyclopedia of Nursing and Allied Health
Prostate cancer is curable when detected early. However, because the early stages of prostate cancer may not have any visible symptoms, it often goes undetected until the patient goes for a routine physical examination. Diagnosis of the disease is...
Source:Gale Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine
Although prostate cancer may be very slow-growing, it can be quite aggressive, especially in younger men. When the disease is slow-growing, it may go undetected. Because it may take many years for the cancer to develop, many men with the disease a...
Source:Gale Encyclopedia of Genetic Disorders Part I
Prostate cancer is curable when detected early. Yet the early stages of prostate cancer are often asymptomatic, so the disease often goes undetected until the patient has a routine physical examination. Diagnosis of prostate cancer can be made usi...
Source:Gale Encyclopedia of Medicine
A bone scan is a test that detects areas of increased or decreased bone metabolism (turnover). The test is performed to identify abnormal processes involving the bone such as tumor, infection, or fracture.
Source:ADAM
Date:August 22, 2006
A bone scan is a diagnostic imaging procedure used to evaluate abnormalities involving bones and joints. A radionuclide is injected intravenously, and its distribution in the skeletal system is analyzed to detect certain diseases or conditions.
Source:Gale Encyclopedia of Nursing and Allied Health
A bone scan is an imaging test that uses a special camera to form images of your bones. It is used to diagnose bone problems, such as fractures, cancer, or infections, and joint problems such as arthritis. It is also used to check joint replacements.
Source:StayWell
A bone scan is a diagnostic procedure used to evaluate abnormalities involving bones and joints. A radioactive substance is injected intravenously, and the image of its distribution in the skeletal system is analyzed to detect certain diseases or conditions.
Source:Gale Encyclopedia of Medicine
A complete blood count (CBC) test measures the following: The number of red blood cells (RBCs) The number of white blood cells (WBCs) The total amount of hemoglobin in the blood The fraction of the blood composed of red blood cells ( hematocrit ) The mean corpuscular volume (MCV) -- the size of the red blood cells CBC also includes information about the red blood cells that is calculated from the other measurements: MCH (mean corpuscular hemoglobin) MCHC (mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration) The platelet count is also usually included in the CBC.
Source:ADAM
Date:September 11, 2006
One of the most commonly ordered clinical laboratory tests, a blood count, also called a complete blood count (CBC), is a basic evaluation of the cells (red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets) suspended in the liquid part of the blood (plasma). It involves determining the numbers, concentrations, and conditions of the different types of blood cells.
Source:Gale Encyclopedia of Medicine
A complete blood count (CBC) is a series of tests used to evaluate the composition and concentration of the cellular components of blood. It consists of the following tests: red blood cell (RBC) count, white blood cell (WBC) count, and platelet count; measurement of hemoglobin and mean red cell volume; classification of white blood cells (WBC differential); and calculation of hematocrit and red blood cell indices .
Source:Gale Encyclopedia of Nursing and Allied Health
The clinical laboratory test that evaluates the three main cellular components of peripheral blood (red cells, white cells, and platelets) is called the " complete blood count " (CBC). It is used commonly to assess whether a patient is anemic (low red cell count), has an infection (increased white blood cells), or has abnormal blood coagulation (platelet levels).
Source:Gale Encyclopedia of Public Health
A complete blood count (CBC) is a series of tests used to evaluate the composition and concentration of the cellular components of blood. It consists of the following tests: red blood cell (RBC) count, white blood cell (WBC) count, and platelet count; measurement of hemoglobin and mean red cell volume; classification of white blood cells (WBC differential); and calculation of hematocrit and red blood cell indices .
Source:Gale Encyclopedia of Surgery
An abdominal CT scan involves X-ray images of the abdomen from many angles. The X-ray beams are detected by the scanner and analyzed by a computer. The computer reconstructs the data into a picture of the body area being scanned. These images can be viewed on a monitor or reproduced as photographs.
Source:ADAM
Date:January 24, 2007
Abdominal wall defects are birth (congenital) defects that allow the stomach or intestines to protrude. Many unexpected and fascinating events occur during the development of a fetus inside the womb.
Source:Gale Encyclopedia of Medicine
Computed tomography (CT) a method of body imaging in which a thin x-ray beam rotates around the patient. Small detectors measure the amount of x-rays that make it through the patient or particular area of interest. A computer analyzes the data to construct a cross-sectional image. These images can be stored, viewed on a monitor, or printed on film. In addition, three-dimensional models of organs can be created by stacking the individual images, or "slices."
Source:ADAM
Date:October 23, 2006
Computed Tomography (CT)Computed tomography(CT) is a test that combines x-rays and computer scans. The result is a detailed picture that can show problems with soft tissues (such as the lining of your sinuses), organs (such as your kidneys or lung...
Source:StayWell
Detailed information on computed tomography scans, also called CT scan or CAT scan, including information on how the procedure is performed
Source:StayWell
Detailed information on CT scan, including how the CT scan is performed and what happens after the procedure
Source:StayWell
Detailed information on ultrafast computed tomography scans, also called ultrafast CT scan or ultrafast CAT scan, including information on how the procedure is performed
Source:StayWell
Detailed information on ultrafast computed tomography (CT) scan, including reasons for the procedure, risks of the procedure, what to expect, and discharge instructions
Source:StayWell
Computed tomography (CT) scans are completed with the use of a 360-degree x-ray beam and computer production of images. These scans allow for cross-sectional views of body organs and tissues.
Source:Gale Encyclopedia of Medicine
Computed tomography (CT), formerly referred to as computerized axial tomography (CAT), is a common diagnostic imaging procedure that uses x rays to generate images (slices) of the anatomy. Purpose Computed tomography (CT) is an x-ray imaging procedure used for a variety of clinical applications.
Source:Gale Encyclopedia of Children's Health
Computed tomography (CT) scanning is a valuable diagnostic tool that provides physicians with views of internal body structures. During a CT scan, multiple x rays are passed through the body, producing cross-sectional images, or " slices, " on a cathode-ray tube (CRT), a device resembling a television screen.
Source:Gale Encyclopedia of Cancer
Computed tomography (also known as CT, CT scan, CAT, or computerized axial tomography) scans use x rays to produce precise cross-sectional images of anatomical structures. With the development of modern computers, the scans enhanced digital capabilities allowed the development of computed tomography imaging (derived from the Greek tomos , meaning " to slice " ).
Source:Gale Encyclopedia of Neurological Disorders
Computed tomography scanning, also called CT scan, CAT scan, or computerized axial tomography, is a diagnostic tool that provides views of internal body structures using x rays. In the field of mental health, a CT scan may be used when a patient seeks medical help for symptoms that could possibly be caused by a brain tumor.
Source:Gale Encyclopedia of Mental Disorders
Is there an alternative to iodine as a contrast medium in a CT scan?
Source:StayWell
What is the difference between a pelvic CT scan and an abdominal CT scan?
Source:StayWell
Computer read-out of a bone density scan. ( Photo Researchers .
Source:Gale Encyclopedia of Medicine
A bone density study helps diagnose osteoporosis (bone thinning). Scans of your lower back, hip, or forearm are taken to measure the amount of calcium (density) in your bones. Calcium is the mineral that makes up your bones.
Source:StayWell
I'm a healthy 65-year-old woman and just had my first bone density test. How often do I need to have it repeated?
Source:StayWell
Detailed information on bone density test, also called bone mass measurement or bone mineral density test
Source:StayWell
PSA, an ingredient of semen, is made by the prostate. Some PSA naturally leaks from the prostate into the bloodstream. The PSA test measures the amount of PSA in the blood. As a man ages, more PSA leaks into the blood.
Source:StayWell
During a physical examination, a health care provider studies a patient's body to determine the presence or absence of physical problems. A typical physical examination includes: Inspection (looking at the body) Palpation (feeling the body with hands) Auscultation (listening to sounds) Percussion (producing sounds)
Source:ADAM
Date:January 22, 2007
Prostate biopsy is a surgical procedure that involves removing a small piece of prostate tissue for microscopic examination. Purpose This test is usually done to determine whether the patient has prostate cancer .
Source:Gale Encyclopedia of Medicine
If the results of your exam and tests lead your doctor to suspect prostate cancer, a core needle biopsy will be done. A thin needle is used to remove small samples of prostate tissue. These samples are checked for cancer.
Source:StayWell
Prostate biopsy is a surgical procedure to remove small samples of prostate tissue for microscopic examination. The prostate gland lies just below the urinary bladder and surrounds the urethra.
Source:Gale Encyclopedia of Nursing and Allied Health
The PSA test measures the amount of PSA (prostate-specific antigen) in the blood.
Source:ADAM
Date:November 1, 2007
Prostate-specific antigen, or PSA, is a protein produced by the prostate gland that may be found in elevated levels in the blood when a person develops certain diseases of the prostate, notably prostate cancer . PSA is specific , because it is present only in prostate tissue.
Source:Gale Encyclopedia of Medicine
Gene Therapy: Targeting the Cause of Lung Cancer to Treat ItThe American Cancer Society estimates that about 160,00 people die of lung cancer  each year. This is more than the deaths caused by the next three leading cancers—colon, breast, an...
Source:StayWell
Prostate Cancer and PSA ScreeningIf you could find a screening test able to detect a potentially deadly cancer, it would be hailed as a lifesaver and widely recommended, wouldn’t it? Not necessarily.
Source:StayWell
Ingesting food has no impact on the outcome of PSA testing for prostate cancer.
Source:StayWell
Prostate-specific antigen, or PSA, is a blood test used by many doctors to screen for prostate cancer. If you've had your PSA level checked, you may have been told that your results were "normal" or "abnormal." However, some men would like to know more about what their PSA level means.
Source:StayWell
Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) is a 32-kilodalton (kD) serine kinase that functions to liquify the ejaculate. It is technically referred to as " human kallekrin 2.
Source:Gale Encyclopedia of Public Health
Harvard Men's Health Watch marks ten years of publication with a retrospective look at ten important men's health topics from the past decade.
Source:StayWell
A digital rectal exam is an examination of the lower rectum to check for hemorrhoids, anal fissures, and stool abnormalities such as frank (evident) or occult (hidden) blood. The term "digital" refers to the clinician's use of a lubricated finger (digit) to conduct the exam. This examination is also used to evaluate the prostate gland in men.
Source:ADAM
Date:March 8, 2008
Rectal examination or digital rectal examination (DRE) is performed by means of inserting a gloved, lubricated finger into the rectum and palpating (feeling) for lumps. Purpose DRE is used as a screening tool to locate rectal cancer and prostate cancer .
Source:Gale Encyclopedia of Medicine
The digital rectal examination (DRE) is a routine part of the physical examination and includes manual examination of the rectum, anus and, in men, the prostate. Purpose The purpose of the digital rectal examination is to identify lesions within the rectum and the prostate.
Source:Gale Encyclopedia of Cancer
Transrectal Ultrasound and BiopsyUltrasound is an imaging test. It uses sound waves to form pictures of your organs that appear on a screen.Transrectal ultrasounduses a special probe that is placed directly into the rectum.
Source:StayWell
Tests That Help Evaluate Prostate CancerYour doctor took a biopsy from your prostate to know that you have cancer.Your doctor may request more tests to learn more about your specific type of cancer and its specific location to help decide on the t...
Source:StayWell
Radiation therapy, sometimes called radiotherapy, x-ray therapy radiation treatment, cobalt therapy, electron beam therapy, or irradiation uses high energy, penetrating waves or particles such as x rays, gamma rays, proton rays, or neutron rays to destroy cancer cells or keep them from reproducing. Purpose The purpose of radiation therapy is to kill or damage cancer cells.
Source:Gale Encyclopedia of Medicine
Radiation therapy, sometimes called radiotherapy, x-ray therapy radiation treatment, cobalt therapy, electron beam therapy, or irradiation uses high energy, penetrating waves or particles such as x rays, gamma rays, proton rays, or neutron rays to destroy cancer cells or keep them from reproducing. Purpose The purpose of radiation therapy is to kill or damage cancer cells.
Source:Gale Encyclopedia of Cancer
Urinalysis is a diagnostic physical, chemical, and microscopic examination of a urine sample (specimen). Specimens can be obtained by normal emptying of the bladder (voiding) or by a hospital procedure called catheterization.
Source:Gale Encyclopedia of Medicine
A urinalysis is a group of manual and/or automated qualitative and semi-quantitative tests performed on a urine sample. A routine urinalysis usually includes the following tests: color, transparency, specific gravity, pH, protein, glucose, ketones, blood, bilirubin, nitrite, urobilinogen, and leukocyte esterase.
Source:Gale Encyclopedia of Surgery
The urine specimen collection is a procedure used to obtain a sample of urine from a patient for diagnostic tests. Purpose The purpose of obtaining a urine sample is to test for any abnormalities that may be present, such as bacteria , ketones, or drugs.
Source:Gale Encyclopedia of Nursing and Allied Health
A urinalysis is a group of manual and/or automated qualitative and semi-quantitative tests performed on a urine sample. A routine urinalysis usually includes the following tests: color, transparency, specific gravity, pH, protein, glucose, ketones, blood , bilirubin, nitrite, urobilinogen, and leukocyte esterase.
Source:Gale Encyclopedia of Nursing and Allied Health
Urinalysis is an important test used in diagnosing diseases of the genitourinary tract. Urine is examined for pH and specific gravity by chemical and direct microscopic methods.
Source:Gale Encyclopedia of Public Health
Urinalysis is a physical and/or chemical examination of the urine. It consist of a battery of chemical and microscopic tests to screen for urinary tract infections , renal (kidney) disease , and diseases of other organs that result in the appearance of abnormal metabolites (break-down products) in the urine.
Source:ADAM
Date:May 5, 2008
A urine dipstick is a colorimetric chemical assay that can be used to determine the pH, specific gravity, protein, glucose, ketone, bilirubin, urobilinogen, blood, leukocyte, and nitrite levels of an individual ' s urine. It consists of a reagent stick-pad, which is immersed in a fresh urine specimen and then withdrawn.
Source:Gale Encyclopedia of Public Health
A cytology exam of urine is used to detect cancer and inflammatory diseases of the urinary tract.
Source:ADAM
Date:October 15, 2007
Urine typically contains epithelial cells shed from the urinary tract. Urine cytology evaluates this urinary sediment for the presence of cancerous cells from the lining of the urinary tract, and it is a convenient noninvasive technique for follow-up analysis of patients treated for urinary tract cancers.
Source:Gale Encyclopedia of Public Health
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