What is prostate fluid analysis

Prostate fluid analysis

Prostate fluid analysis or prostate analysis is one of the routine tests performed on men over 50 years of age. It measures the level of a protein produced by the prostate gland only, known as Prostate-specific antigen. In fact, prostate analysis is performed to detect or Rule out prostate cancer, as the level of this protein rises in the event of prostate cancer, and it should be noted that it is recommended that a prostate analysis be performed in conjunction with a rectal examination, in order to help detect prostate cancer in men over 50 years of age or older, and to monitor prostate cancer patients after They undergo treatment. ^[1]

Prostate analysis results

To obtain accurate results, the patient must not have a urinary tract infection , and he must not ejaculate for 48 hours before the examination, and not exercise vigorous exercise during the 48 hours prior to the examination, in addition to not undergoing a prostate biopsy procedure during the 6 weeks preceding the examination, As these factors affect the results, causing them to rise. ^[2] It is worth noting that the prostate analysis results that are higher than normal values ​​indicate cancer or other conditions other than cancer, such as: prostate infection, but the doctor often requests other tests, including some Comes: ^[3]

• Biopsy: In this procedure, a small sample of prostate cells is taken for examination, and this process is a simple surgical procedure.
• Rectal examination: In this examination, the prostate is touched through the rectum.

Prostate gland

The prostate gland is located at the base of the bladder, and is about the size of a walnut, which is one of the organs of the male reproductive system, through which a thin tube known as the urethra passes through, through which urine flows from the bladder to the outside of the penis, and this gland secretes fluids that help to nourish and protect sperm It should be noted that the prostate gland undergoes two growth periods; In the first stage, the average weight of the gland reaches 20 grams, under the control of the sex hormones produced by the testicles during puberty, and the second stage begins in the thirties of life for reasons that are not clear, and continues to the seventies, as the average weight of the gland at this stage reaches 40 Grams. ^[4]

References

1. ↑ "Prostate Tests" , www.niddk.nih.gov , Retrieved 4-4-2019. Edited.
2. ↑ "How is a prostate exam done?" , www.medicalnewstoday.com , Retrieved 4-4-2019. Edited.
3. ↑ "Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) Test" , medlineplus.gov , Retrieved 4-4-2019. Edited.
4. ↑ "Prostate gland and urinary problems" , www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au , Retrieved 4-4-2019. Edited.