DRE

• DRE stands for digital rectal exam, still one of the most common methods of detecting any changes in the male prostate gland. Located just above the male bladder and directly in front of the rectum, the rear portion of the prostate can be manually felt by inserting a gloved finger into the rectum of a male patient. A normal, healthy prostate is soft and pliable, while diseased or cancerous prostate tissues may be hard and firm.
  
  

TRUS

• TRUS stands for transrectal ultrasound, a diagnostic imaging scan that measures the size of a prostate and can detect tumors or changes in size. A probe that emits ultrasonic impulses is manually inserted into the rectum. Images are then projected onto a screen or monitor that a physician can look at for examination of prostate and surrounding area tissues.
  
  

PSA

• PSA stands for prostate-specific antigen. This antigen is commonly found in males, where normal levels range between 4 or lower ng/mL, or nanograms per milliliter. Slightly elevated levels of the antigen may range between 4 and 10, while slightly elevated may range between 10 and 20. A highly elevated level of PSA, roughly that between 20 and 35 often indicates some type of cancer growth, though a biopsy will be performed to determine such concerns. Men should also be aware that PSA levels naturally increase through age, so address concerns regarding numbers with your family care provider.
  
  

Biopsy

• A biopsy is the process through which a small sample or section of questionable tissue may be taken from the prostate for microscopic examination to determine the presence of cancerous cells.