Prostate Biopsy
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Test Overview
A prostate gland biopsy is a test to remove small samples of prostate tissue to be examined under a microscope. See an illustration of the prostate gland 
.
For a prostate biopsy, a thin needle is inserted through the rectum (transrectal biopsy), through the urethra, or through the area between the anus and scrotum (perineum). A transrectal biopsy is the most common method used. The tissue samples taken during the biopsy are examined for cancer cells.
A biopsy may be done when a blood test shows a high level of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) or after a digital rectal examination finds an abnormal prostate or a lump.
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| Last updated: | March 12, 2007 |
|---|---|
| Author: | Maria G. Essig, MS, ELS |
| Reviewed By: | E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine, Avery L. Seifert, MD - Urology |
| Editors: | Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Tracy Landauer |
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