Prostate Cancer Treatment Melbourne
Trusted care and advanced solutions for prostate health from a leading Melbourne Urologist.
Prostate cancer and elevated PSA
Dr. Perera’s Prostate Cancer Research
The investigation of elevated Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) levels has been a critical aspect of urological health and prostate cancer screening. PSA is a protein produced by the cells of the prostate gland and is commonly used as a biomarker to detect potential prostate abnormalities. Elevated PSA levels indicate various conditions, including benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), prostatitis, or prostate cancer.
As a leading Melbourne urologist, Dr. Perera can offer insight into finding the best diagnostic and treatment paths. As a regular contributor to the contemporary understanding of the urological field, Dr. Perera has been a part of groundbreaking research and can navigate literature on the matter. All care he delivers to his patients is based on cutting-edge scientific evidence.
Further, given substantial public appointments at key academic centres across Melbourne, Dr Perera has direct access to multiple clinical trials.
Understanding Elevated PSA
Elevated PSA levels may require a thorough investigation by a healthcare professional to decipher the underlying cause accurately. Investigating elevated PSA levels requires an exceptionally cautious approach, as high PSA levels do not always indicate cancer, and conversely, normal levels do not always rule it out.
You can expect the investigative process to involve several of the following steps:
Patient History and Risk Assessment
A detailed medical history, including any urinary symptoms, family history of prostate cancer, and prior PSA measurements. The patient’s age, ethnicity, and lifestyle factors are also considered to assess their risk for prostate cancer.
Digital Rectal Examination (DRE)
A DRE is typically performed to assess the prostate’s size and texture, and detect any irregularities or nodules. Although it cannot definitively diagnose cancer, it complements the PSA test in evaluating prostate health.
Imaging Studies
Various imaging techniques may be considered such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). MRI is a useful adjunct and is frequently subsidized by a government rebate if certain criteria are met. MRI may be utilized to visualize the prostate gland and identify any abnormalities or tumors.
Biopsy
If the PSA levels and other findings raise suspicion of prostate cancer, a prostate biopsy is often recommended (transperineal). This procedure involves collecting tissue samples from the prostate gland using a thin needle, which a pathologist for signs of cancer then analyzes.
Additional Tests
Depending on the case, additional tests like free PSA measurement, PCA3 (Prostate Cancer Antigen 3) test, or 4Kscore may be utilized to improve diagnostic accuracy and differentiate between benign and malignant conditions.
What Is Localised Prostate Cancer?
Localised prostate cancer refers to the early stage of prostate cancer, when the tumour is confined to the prostate gland and has not spread to other parts of the body. Diagnosis typically takes place on prostate biopsy, as outlined above. Managing localised prostate cancer typically involves determining the stage of cancer, selecting appropriate treatment options, and understanding all the potential outcomes after the treatment.
Generally speaking, several treatment options may be possible for confirmed localised prostate cancer. This may include:
Active Surveillance
For low-risk localised prostate cancer, where the cancer is slow-growing and not likely to cause harm, active surveillance may be recommended. Regular monitoring with PSA tests, digital rectal examinations, and occasional MRIs and biopsies are performed to ensure timely intervention if the cancer progresses.
Surgery (Radical Prostatectomy)
Radical prostatectomy involves surgical removal of the entire prostate gland and surrounding tissues. It is a common treatment option for localised prostate cancer and is generally performed via robot-assisted surgery (RARP).
Radiation Therapy
This treatment uses high-energy rays to target and kill cancer cells. External beam radiation therapy and brachytherapy (internal radiation) are two primary forms of radiation therapy used for localised prostate cancer.
Focal Therapy
This is a novel approach and targets and treats only the specific areas of the prostate containing cancer, leaving the rest of the gland intact.
Strict inclusion criteria must be met to be considered a suitable candidate for Focal therapy. Focal therapy options include cryotherapy, high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU), and laser ablation.
Your Prostate Cancer Treatment Questions Answered
How is prostate cancer diagnosed?
As outlined above, there are several different tests that can be used to detect prostate cancer. The most common options are tests for PSA levels and digital rectal examination (DRE).
Are there different options for treating prostate cancer?
Depending on the nature of your prostate cancer and your symptoms, Dr. Perera will be able to advise you on which treatment options may work best for you. Treatments such as radiation therapy, surgery, and focal therapy may be appropriate, depending on your circumstances.
Where does Dr. Perera operate across Melbourne?
Dr Perera operates across several hospitals across greater Melbourne, ensuring that exceptional services are as accessible as possible. You can meet with Dr. Perera at Epworth Freemasons, Epworth Richmond, Holmesglen Private and Waverley Private Hospital.
What are the different types of prostate cancers?
There is a broad variety of different prostate cancers that could be the cause of your symptoms. Types of cancers that may be diagnosed through processes such as elevated PSA testing, including sarcomas and small cell carcinomas.
Why Choose Perera Urology?
Patient-Focussed Care
Patient care is the top priority at Perera Urology. Dr. Perera is dedicated to providing personalised advice and support to best guide you through your prostate cancer treatment.
Experience and Qualification
If you’re looking for a leading Melbourne Urologist you can trust with your health needs, Dr. Perera can offer unparalleled experience. With years of research and exceptional industry training, Dr. Perera can offer evidence-based treatment solutions.
Passion for Healthy Living
Even outside of his work, Dr. Perera has a passion for healthy living. Treating patients and offering them tailored advice is just one part of his commitment to helping Australians living happier, healthier lives.
Make an Enquiry for Dr. Perera’s Evidence-Based Treatment
If you’re looking for someone to help treat prostate cancer, then you should put your health in the hands of a leading Melbourne urologist. Dr. Perera’s extensive understanding of advanced prostate cancer treatment can help you navigate options such as hormone therapy and radiation therapy.
No matter whether you’re looking for treatment for early-stage prostate cancer cells or more aggressive prostate cancer cells, Dr. Perera will be able to offer personalised advice for your ongoing treatment. Contact Perera Urology today to enquire about a consultation.