A new study has revealed that it is important for patients with prostate cancer to get an MRI scan prior to treatment for the cancer. That's because the MRI has the ability to detect the depth and spread of the disease. This means that doctors can more properly evaluate the correct treatment and can be more aggressive in their treatment approach as necessary.
Basically, it is assumed that prostate cancer is going to be concentrated in the prostate capsule. However, there are many instances in which the cancer has already spread to surrounding areas (in which case it is called extracapsular extension). An MRI can see those areas and allow doctors to determine that it is necessary to not only treat the prostate cancer but also to treat the extracapsular extension.
The MRI is a powerful tool for screening and can allow for detection of the disease in the very early stages. Catching it in time to direct treatment allows the patient the optimum health experience.
Question of the Day: If your doctor didn't recommend an MRI before starting prostate cancer treatment, would you ask about getting one done?
