How to Determine if a Prostate Nodule is Benign or Malignant
Nov 08, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Cao Zhiqiang
Introduction
In general, prostate nodules can be assessed through symptoms, location, ultrasound examination, prostate-specific antigen (PSA) testing, and treatment methods. If you experience any discomfort, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly. If prostate nodules are detected, it is advised to visit a reputable hospital and undergo treatment under the guidance of a qualified physician. During the treatment period, it is important to maintain a light diet, ensure adequate sleep, and avoid staying up late.
Generally, prostate nodules can be assessed through symptoms, location, ultrasound examination, prostate-specific antigen (PSA) testing, and treatment methods. If discomfort occurs, timely medical consultation is recommended. Detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Symptoms
Benign prostate nodules are often caused by benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), and patients may experience common symptoms such as frequent urination, urgency, and difficulty in urination. If the nodule is malignant, more severe symptoms such as hematuria (blood in urine), painful urination, and urinary retention may occur. Systemic symptoms such as weight loss, fatigue, and low-grade fever may also appear. The condition typically progresses rapidly and may worsen as the disease advances.
2. Location
Benign nodules are mainly found in the inner gland and are usually symmetric in structure, while malignant nodules commonly occur in the outer gland area. They often cause capsular elevation and destruction and are asymmetric.
3. Ultrasound Examination
Benign prostate nodules typically appear as hyperechoic (brighter echo) nodules with a pseudocapsule, clear boundaries, and sparse blood flow distributed in a branch-like or linear pattern. Malignant prostate nodules usually show hypoechoic (darker echo) internal structure, irregular shape, partial lobulated invasion, and rich local blood supply with asymmetric clustering of blood vessels.
4. Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) Test
In cases of benign prostate nodules, PSA levels are usually normal or slightly elevated but generally do not exceed 4 ng/mL. In cases of malignant prostate nodules, particularly prostate cancer, PSA levels are often elevated, especially when PSA exceeds 10 ng/mL.
5. Treatment Methods
Benign prostate nodules can be treated under the guidance of a specialist with medications such as levofloxacin tablets or azithromycin capsules. Malignant prostate nodules require treatment under a physician's guidance, often involving prostatectomy (surgical removal of the prostate).
If prostate nodules are detected, it is recommended to visit a regular hospital and receive treatment under the guidance of a qualified physician. During treatment, a light diet, sufficient sleep, and avoiding staying up late are advised to promote recovery.
