Prostate cancer: Symptoms, diagnosis and causes
The prostate cancer is a malignant tumor that forms in the cells of the prostate, often in men over 50. It can cause urinary symptoms, and requires screening for appropriate treatment.
Prostate cancer: Symptoms
The symptoms of prostate cancer can vary, but it's essential to be alert to the early signs. Visit urinary disorderschanges in urinary frequency or flow are often the first indicators. Pain or discomfort during urination can also be an early sign. These symptoms are sometimes discreet, so it's important to monitor them carefully.
Recognizing early signs
Identifying the early signs of prostate cancer requires paying attention to certain changes:
- Urinary problems A more frequent urge to urinate or difficulty in starting or stopping the flow of urine can be warning signs.
- Pelvic pain Pain in the pelvic area, however slight, may indicate a problem to watch out for.
- Pain or discomfort during urination : This type of discomfort should not be ignored.
Being alert to these changes is crucial, as they may indicate the presence of prostate cancer. Early detection allows rapid treatment and increases the chances of success. Encouraging men to recognize these signs and discuss them with a healthcare professional is essential to their well-being.
In short, recognizing these early symptoms is an important step towards preserving your health. It involves being aware of subtle changes and communicating openly with your loved ones. urologists to assess risks and act quickly.

Advanced Symptoms and Complications of Cancer
Advanced prostate cancer symptoms are important for understanding the progression of the disease and determining the best treatment options.
Increased urinary problems
- Increased frequency of urination.
- Increasing difficulty starting or stopping urination.
- Persistent pelvic pain.
Bone pain
- These pains may be a sign that the cancer has spread to the bones.
- They can be localized or generalized, reducing mobility and quality of life.
Persistent fatigue
- Intense fatigue may limit daily activities.
Unexplained weight loss
- Often associated with advanced stages of cancer, it can have a significant impact on the metabolism.
Complications and metastases
- Cancer can spread to other organs, such as the heart, lungs, liver and kidneys. lungsthe liver or lymph nodes.
- This complicates treatment and can worsen symptoms.
Understanding these advanced symptoms helps patients and healthcare professionals work together to find the best treatment. A rapid assessment of these signs enables the development of appropriate strategies to improve quality of life and manage the disease optimally.
Prostate Cancer: Diagnosis
Diagnosis of prostate cancer is based on screening tests and confirmatory examinations. These include biopsy plays a key role.
PSA: screening tests
Screening tests, such as PSA (prostate-specific antigen) and digital rectal examination (DRE), are essential for detecting abnormalities.
- The PSA is a protein produced by the prostate. An elevated level in the blood can signal a problem.
- The rectal examination is used to assess the size and texture of the prostate.
These tests don't always confirm the presence of cancer, but they may indicate the need for further investigation, such as a biopsy.
Prostate biopsy: confirming the diagnosis
A biopsy involves taking samples of prostate tissue to check for the presence of cancer cells.
- Special needles are used to collect samples via the rectal wall.
- These samples are analyzed under the microscope to determine the nature and aggressiveness of the cancer.
Although common, this procedure carries risks such as infection or bleeding, which must be discussed with the doctor. A biopsy is essential to confirm the diagnosis and decide on treatment.
PSA: screening tests
PSA tests measure the level of a protein produced by the prostate, a key indicator of prostate health. From high levels of PSA may suggest abnormalities, although they do not necessarily indicate cancer. The digital rectal exam (DRE) completes this test, providing an assessment of the size and texture of the prostate. Abnormal PSA results, combined with a suspicious DRE, often prompt a biopsy for definitive confirmation.
PSA levels: Exploring the data
PSA Between 4 and 10 ng/mL
A PSA level between 4 and 10 ng/mL is slightly elevated and may signal prostate problems, although it's not necessarily a sign of cancer. This elevation may be the result of a variety of conditions, including benign prostatic hyperplasia or a urinary tract infection. To eliminate any doubts, further tests, such as biopsies, may be considered.
PSA Between 10 and 20 ng/mL
When the PSA reaches between 10 and 20 ng/mL, the risk of cancer becomes more worrying. Although this may be due to other causes, such as the natural increase of the prostate with age, this value often warrants further evaluation. Regular follow-up and discussion with a healthcare professional are essential when deciding on next steps.
Prostatic adenocarcinoma: Malignant or benign?
L'prostatic adenocarcinoma is a common form of prostate cancer that develops from glandular cells.
- A malignant tumor is more aggressive and can spread to other parts of the body.
- Benign growth remains limited and is less dangerous.
The results of a biopsy allow us to make this distinction and choose the best treatment options for each patient.
Causes of Prostate Cancer
Prostate cancer is caused by many factors, including age, family history, race and genetic predisposition.
Risk factors
- Age : The risk increases with age, especially after 50 years.
- Family history A close relative with cancer increases the chances of developing it.
- Breed : Certain ethnic groups, such as men of African descent, have a higher risk.
- Genetic predisposition Genetic mutations may also play a role.
Understanding these factors enables us to adopt preventive measures, such as regular check-ups, and to develop a screening strategy tailored to each individual.
In conclusion, a better understanding of the causes and risks associated with prostate cancer can help men to act quickly and effectively to preserve their health.