Prostate Cancer Testing in Plano, TX

For patients at risk, or for those who show symptoms of a prostate condition, the Plano, TX, family doctors at Village Health Partners can provide a PSA test to screen for prostate cancer. According to the National Cancer Institute, prostate cancer is cancer that forms in the tissue of the prostate. Prostates are glands in the male reproductive system found below the bladder and in front of the rectum that produce the seminal fluid that nourishes and transports sperm. Each year in the U.S., approximately 239,000 men are diagnosed with prostate cancer. A prostate cancer test, commonly referred to as a prostate exam, looks for abnormalities in the prostate and treats them if they are found. It is recommended that men over the age of 40 receive this exam annually even if they have no family history of prostate cancer.

Prostate examinations are extremely common, however, most males are apprehensive about undergoing testing. This exam is a very simple exam and helps to catch abnormalities or even cancer at their early stages if given annually. The prostate exam is a rectal exam that is done in males over 40 years of age. During a DRE, digital rectal exam, your doctor will insert a gloved, lubricated finger into your rectum to examine your prostate -- which is adjacent to the rectum. If your doctor finds any abnormalities in the texture, shape or size of your prostate gland, you may need more tests, such as a PSA test. The PSA, prostate-specific antigen, is a blood test that can also be used, but the accuracy of the PSA is questionable. Patients should discuss the pros and cons of this blood test with their physician to decide if it should be ordered.

Our medical practice is committed to improving your health by focusing on prevention and helping the communities we serve to thrive. Our family medicine physicians and staff are here to get you back on track by providing preventative care options and premier cancer treatments. Men who are age 40 and over are highly recommended to visit our facility where we are a leader in Men’s Health.

Additional testing may be required in patients who had abnormal findings during their examination. These tests may require more invasive procedures to determine the extent of the abnormality. Should prostate cancer be detected, there are a number of other tests and treatment options the patients will need to discuss with their physician. Depending on each situation, the most common treatment options include: expectant management, surgery, radiation therapy, cryosurgery, hormone therapy, chemotherapy, vaccine treatment and bone-directed treatment.