Screening of prostate Ca commonly done by
**Question:** Screening of prostate cancer (Ca) commonly done by
A. Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test
B. Digital rectal examination (DRE)
C. Ultrasonography
D. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
**Core Concept:** Prostate cancer is a common malignancy in men, and early detection is crucial for better prognosis and treatment options. Screening methods aim to identify prostate cancer before it presents clinically.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right:** The prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test is a widely used screening tool for prostate cancer. PSA is a protein produced by the prostate gland, and its blood levels rise in the presence of prostate cancer or prostate inflammation. A raised PSA level prompts further evaluation, such as digital rectal examination (DRE) and, if necessary, imaging studies (MRI or ultrasound). DRE is performed to assess prostate size, consistency, and the presence of a palpable tumor mass. MRI and ultrasound are used for imaging and localization of prostate lesions.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect:**
B. Digital rectal examination (DRE) is crucial for assessing the prostate, detecting prostate cancer, and evaluating prostate abnormalities. However, it is not a screening tool as it can only detect clinically significant prostate cancer or palpable lesions.
C. Ultrasonography is an imaging technique used for diagnosing and staging prostate cancer, but it is not a screening tool.
D. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a sensitive and specific imaging technique for detecting prostate cancer, especially for clinically significant tumors. However, it is not a standalone screening tool, as it needs to be combined with PSA testing and DRE to evaluate the need for MRI.
**Clinical Pearl:** The combination of PSA testing, digital rectal examination, and MRI is an effective prostate cancer screening strategy for men aged 50 years or older, with a life expectancy sufficient for cancer treatment and a life expectancy >10 years for those aged 50-69 years.
**Correct Answer:** D. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a sensitive and specific imaging technique for detecting prostate cancer, especially for clinically significant tumors. However, it is not a standalone screening tool, as it needs to be combined with PSA testing and digital rectal examination to evaluate the need for MRI.