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I had 2 PSA tests given by Kaiser 10.9 and 11: What test is next?
Prostate Cancer | Last Active: Apr 27 8:05pm | Replies (22)Comment receiving replies
An MRI can rule out an unnecessary biopsy. More importantly it can direct the later biopsy in an mri ultrasound fusion biopsy. https://www.pennmedicine.org/for-patients-and-visitors/find-a-program-or-service/urology/male-urology-program/mri-fusion-biopsy#:~:text=The%20fusion%20biopsy%20technology%20combines,tissue%20sample)%20with%20a%20needle.https://www.californiaprotons.cutm_source=yext&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=local&st-t=yext
Biopsy without MRI has been referred to on this site as blind biopsy.
Your physician may refuse or may be limited in his ablilty by contract with Kaiser.
3 Tesla is the measurement of magnet strenght. 3T can detect tumors of 3-4mm undetectable by the lower strenght 1,5T.
At USC the internist ordered the MRI as soon as he saw the 11 point PSA. I think the MRI is usually ordered by the urologist. It may be that the urology practice this PA is attached to likes to go straight to the biopsy. I don't think you should agree.
You may not even have a lesion. I suspect you haven't had a digital exam. And I don't blame you.
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Hi Gently , thanks for the advice I really appreciate it . I have a couple of questions - you say a high resolution MRI can rule out an unnecessary biopsy - if this is true what would the MRI have to show to make the doctor feel that a biopsy would be unnecessary ? Do you mean if they do an MRI and there are no visible lesions they would be likely to not recommend a biopsy ? If that's true why would they even consider a biopsy first ( considering the chance of side effects from a prostate biopsy ) .
Also , can you explain what a digital exam is ? Sorry I don't have a clue ....
Thanks in advance for any comments .