Prostate Biopsy

A prostate biopsy is an exam that allows small tissue samples to be collected from the prostate for laboratory analysis. It is the gold standard method for confirming or ruling out the diagnosis of prostate cancer and is often performed following suspicious findings on prostate ultrasound, prostate MRI, or blood tests (such as PSA).

What is a Prostate Biopsy and what is it for?

A prostate biopsy is a medical procedure that involves removing small fragments of tissue from the prostate gland, usually with the help of a needle guided by ultrasound.

The collected samples are analyzed in a pathology laboratory to identify cellular changes, such as inflammation, benign hyperplasia, or malignant cells.

The exam is essential to:

• Confirm the diagnosis of prostate cancer;

• Assess the aggressiveness and extent of the disease;

• Clarify abnormalities seen on imaging exams or elevated PSA levels;

• Support decision-making regarding the most appropriate treatment.

What is the price of a Prostate Biopsy?

The price of a prostate biopsy at X-Clinic is €300, except when special protocols are applied.

How is it performed?

In most cases, the biopsy is performed by introducing an ultrasound probe into the rectum (transrectal/endocavitary approach). Under ultrasound guidance, the doctor inserts a fine needle that collects small fragments of prostate tissue, which are then sent for analysis.

In some cases, the biopsy can be performed through the skin between the scrotum and the anus (transperineal approach), particularly in patients at higher risk of infection.

There are two main types of prostate biopsy:

• Ultrasound-guided prostate biopsy: the traditional method, in which the needle is guided solely by ultrasound imaging. It is quick, accessible, and allows for systematic sampling of the prostate.

• MRI-fusion prostate biopsy: a more advanced technique in which previously acquired MRI images of the prostate are integrated with real-time ultrasound. This allows the doctor to guide the needle with greater precision toward suspicious areas, increasing the detection rate of clinically significant lesions and reducing unnecessary sampling.

The procedure is usually performed under local anesthesia. It may cause some discomfort, but it is not painful.

The exam typically lasts 15 to 30 minutes and is performed on an outpatient basis, without the need for hospitalization.

After the biopsy, the patient can return home the same day.

What does it detect?

The prostate biopsy accurately identifies cellular changes, including:

• Presence of malignant cells (prostate cancer);

• Tumor aggressiveness (Gleason/ISUP classification);

• Benign lesions, such as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) or prostatitis.

It is the only test that definitively confirms the diagnosis of prostate cancer.

When is it indicated?

A prostate biopsy may be recommended by a urologist in situations such as:

• Elevated or progressively increasing PSA levels;

• Suspicious findings on prostate ultrasound or MRI;

• Presence of nodules or hardened areas detected during a digital rectal exam;

• Active surveillance in patients with already diagnosed prostate cancer, to monitor disease progression.

Preparation for a Prostate Biopsy

Before the exam, the doctor may recommend:

• Temporarily discontinuing certain anticoagulant medications (only if advised by the physician);

• Taking preventive antibiotics to reduce the risk of infection (only if prescribed);

• Performing a rectal cleansing (micro-enema), if the biopsy is to be performed via the transrectal route.

You should always bring previous exams (PSA, ultrasounds, MRIs, or medical reports) and the medical prescription for the biopsy.