What investigations are there for prostate cancer?
There are a number of tests, which can be carried out to find out if you have prostate cancer. No one test on its own can conclusively prove that you have the disease. Your doctor will explain to you beforehand what is involved in the tests.

What investigations can my GP perform?
Your GP may perform one or more of the following investigations:

• Digital Rectal Examination (to feel for abnormal lumps in the prostate)

• Blood Tests (for assessment of your general condition)
• Blood Tests (for Prostate Specific Antigen, PSA) (See 'About PSA')

What investigations can my hospital perform?
Your hospital doctor may perform one or more of the following investigations.

• Transrectal Ultrasound Scan (TRUS) – to produce a picture (scan) of your prostate (see also 'About TRUS and Biopsy')
• Biopsy – to take a small sample of your prostate tissue for testing (see also 'About TRUS and Biopsy')
• Computer Tomography (CT) Scan – to produce detailed pictures of your prostate and nearby tissue (see also 'About CT Scan')
• Magnetic Resonance (MR) Scan - to produce detailed pictures of your prostate and nearby tissue (see also 'MR Scan')
• Isotope Bone Scan – to see if the cancer has spread to other parts of the body in particular bone (see also 'About Isotope Bone Scanning')