What is an MRI for prostate cancer?
A prostate MRI, or magnetic resonance imaging of the prostate, plays a critical role in prostate cancer detection, diagnosis, tumour localisation, and staging of prostate cancer, as well as treatment planning and follow ups.
Magnetic resource imaging (MRI) is widely regarded as the best available imaging technique for the prostate, and is designed to provide detailed images of soft tissue (including its substructure). This kind of imagery can be extremely useful in detecting and localising a prostate tumour.
MRIs are quite different from CT scans, X-rays and ultrasounds, and its magnetic radio waves are completely safe and painless.
What role does MRI play in prostate cancer detection?
A prostate MRI can help identify prostate cancer, tumours and benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). They help in diagnosis and determining the aggressiveness of the cancer, and aid with the staging and localising of tumours.
A prostatic multi-parametric (mpMRI) will detect any significant lesions in the soft tissue of the prostate. This information can help Dr Swindle determine whether a patient needs a prostate biopsy.
What role does MRI play in prostate cancer treatment?
If Dr Swindle determines that the patient will need a prostate biopsy, a prostate MRI can be used to accurately target the lesion during surgery.
What other tests are involved in prostate cancer screening?
A prostate cancer MRI is designed to complement screening tools such as the Prostate Specific Antigen blood test and Digital Rectal Examination.
