While some prostate cancers grow rapidly and metastasize or spread, others grow very slowly and are unlikely to metastasize. This low risk prostate cancer may not need to be treated as soon as they are diagnosed. Slow growing prostate cancer may not have time to cause significant problems and the complications and side effects of treatment (such as decreased erectile function or bladder control) may outweigh the advantages. In active surveillance, you will be carefully monitored by having regular PSA blood tests and Digital Rectal Exams (DRE) to determine if a repeat biopsy is required. Treatment can be given if the cancer is progressing or if the patient decides on further treatment.

Posted in: Treatment Options