Beyond PSA, which exam is commonly used to evaluate suspected prostate cancer?

• A. Digital rectal exam findings
• B. Urinalysis
• C. Chest X-ray
• D. Renal ultrasound

Answer: (A)

The test relies on combining a blood marker with direct clinical assessment of the prostate. Beyond PSA, a digital rectal examination is used to evaluate suspected prostate cancer because it allows the clinician to feel for abnormalities in the prostate itself. During the examination, the practitioner checks the size, texture, and contour of the gland. Abnormal findings—such as hard, nodular, or asymmetric areas—raise suspicion for cancer and help guide decisions about biopsy. While PSA screening is important, it isn’t definitive on its own, and the DRE adds valuable information about whether there might be a lesion within the prostate.

The other options don’t assess the prostate for cancer in the same way. Urinalysis focuses on urinary tract issues like infection or stones and doesn’t reveal prostate abnormalities. Chest X-ray isn’t a primary step in evaluating suspected prostate cancer, though it may be used later if metastasis is suspected. Renal ultrasound looks at the kidneys and urinary tract rather than the prostate.