The Pikeville Medical Center Diagnostic Center was the first in the region to perform a PET scan designed specifically to detect prostate cancer. Now, PMC can perform a specialized scan that detects cells indicating prostate cancer, potentially leading to quicker diagnosis and treatment.
The risk of developing prostate cancer increases as men age. Other than skin cancer, prostate cancer is the most common cancer in American men. Statistics show about 1 in 8 men will get prostate cancer in their lifetime, with 60% of cases diagnosed in men ages 65 and over,according to the American Cancer Society.
“We are so excited to be able to offer this diagnostic test at Pikeville Medical Center,” said Joni Fields, PMC Vice President of Diagnostic Services. “Being able to provide this advanced testing gives patients of this region access to technology that is not typically offered at rural hospitals.”
The prostate PET scan can be used as a tool to diagnose or help guide treatment for prostate cancer. Prior to the scan, a patient will receive an injection that will highlight prostate cancer cells.
This PET scan technology is particularly beneficial to urologists treating patients who are at high risk of or suspected of having prostate cancer by expediting a cancer diagnosis and treatment. Knowing if the cancer has spread beyond the prostate at the time of diagnosis is a monumental step in helping patients achieve the best possible outcome.
In its early stages, prostate cancer may not exhibit any symptoms, but as it advances, it may cause men to experience trouble urinating, decreased force in the urine stream, blood in the urine, weight loss without trying or erectile dysfunction.For more information about this technology at Pikeville Medical Center, visit pikevillehospital.org/prostate-cancer-detection.
