Diagnosis of BPH
When history and symptoms suggest BPH, the following tests are
performed to confirm or rule out the presence of an enlarged prostate.
- Digital rectal examination (DRE)
In this examination, a lubricated, gloved finger is gently inserted into the
patient’s rectum to feel the surface of the prostate gland through the
rectal wall. This examination gives the doctor an idea of the size and
condition of the prostate gland.
In BPH, on DRE, the prostate is enlarged, smooth, and firm in
consistency. Hard, nodular and irregular feel of the prostate on DRE
suggests cancer or calcification of prostate gland.
146. Save Your Kidneys
Can a person with symptoms of BPH have prostate cancer?
How is prostate cancer diagnosed?
Yes. Many symptoms of prostate cancer and BPH are similar, so on
the basis of clinical symptoms it is not possible to differentiate between
the two conditions. But remember, BPH is not related to prostate cancer.
Three most important tests which can establish the diagnosis of prostate
cancer are digital rectal examination (DRE), blood test for prostate-
specific antigen (PSA) and prostate biopsy.
Blood PSA test is an important screening test
for the diagnosis of cancer of the prostate.