Prostate Cancer

Question 1

Define prostate cancer.

Answer 1

A malignant tumour of glandular origin, situated in the prostate. It is most commonly seen in older men; between 2011 and 2015 the median age at diagnosis in the US was 66 years.

Question 2

Explain the aetiology/risk factors of prostate cancer.

Answer 2

Age >50 years
Black ethnicity
North American or northwest European descent
Family history of prostate cancer
High levels of dietary fat

Question 3

Summarise the epidemiology of prostate cancer.

Answer 3

Between 2011 and 2015, the median age at diagnosis of prostate cancer was 66 years. The age-adjusted incidence rate during the same period was 112.6 per 100,000 men per year.

Question 4

Recognise the presenting symptoms of prostate cancer. Recognise the signs of prostate cancer on physical examination.

Answer 4

Elevated prostate-specific antigen (PSA)
Nocturia
Urinary frequency
Urinary hesitancy
Dysuria
Abnormal digital rectal examination

Question 5

Identify appropriate investigations for prostate cancer and interpret the results.

Answer 5

Serum prostate-specific antigen (PSA)
Testosterone
LFTs
FBC
Renal function
Prostate biopsy