Diagnosis, investigations and tests

You will most likely have been referred to the hospital for further investigation following a blood test at your GP practice. The blood test you received is called a prostate specific antigen (PSA) test. It measures the levels of PSA in your blood and may help detect early prostate cancer. If you are aged over 50, you can ask your GP for a PSA test.

Our doctors may request that you receive some of the following tests as a result of your GP referral: 

 

MRI scan – If you have a raised PSA level, you will have an MRI scan of the prostate to help doctors decide if you need further tests. An MRI uses strong magnetic fields and radio waves to create a cross-sectional picture of the body. The scan normally takes between 45 minutes and one hour to complete. Learn more about MRI scans.

 

Digital rectal examination – Your doctor may ask to examine your prostate by inserting a gloved finger into your bottom. Learn more about this examination on the NHS website (opens in new tab).

 

Biopsy – Your doctor or specialist nurse may need to take a tissue sample from your prostate. They will use an ultrasound probe to guide the biopsy. Before the procedure you will be given a local anaesthetic. Discover more about this investigation on the NHS website (opens in new tab).