Abnormal Digital Rectal Examination Research Articles

Robot-Assisted Radical Prostatectomy in PIRADS 5 Lesions Without Prior Biopsy: Is Biopsy Really Necessary in This Cohort?

Introduction: Conventionally, confirmation of clinically significant prostate cancer (csPCa) (Gleason grade group ≥ 2) involves an initial multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging (mpMRI) followed by biopsy. Prostate biopsy incurs inherent risks of infection, bleeding, patient discomfort, and a 6-week delay before robot-assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy (RALP). We explored the feasibility of immediate RALP in men with PIRADS 5 lesions without preceding biopsy. Methodology: After obtaining institutional review board approval, a prospective analysis was conducted on 235 patients with PIRADS 5 lesions on mpMRI from December 2018 to February 2023. Patients were divided into 2 groups as follows: Group NoBiopsy (biopsy not done before RALP, cases, n = 118) and Group YesBiopsy (biopsy done before RALP, controls, n = 117). Baseline preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative parameters were analyzed. Functional outcomes were monitored at 1, 3-, 6-, 9-, and 12-months follow-up post-RALP. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS and STATA. Results: Ninety-five percent of cases and 87.17% controls had csPCa on final pathology post-RALP. Multivariable analysis did not find significant association between biopsy status and csPCa. Abnormal digital rectal examination (DRE), family history, preoperative PSA, and MRI lesion volume predicted csPCa. Significant differences were observed in console time (NoBiopsy vs. YesBiopsy, 60 ± 10 vs. 70 ± 9 minutes, p < 0.001) and estimated blood loss (80 ± 20 vs. 100 ± 30 mL, p < 0.01) between groups. At 6 months post-RALP, 96% of men in Group NoBiopsy were continent, compared with 88% of men in Group YesBiopsy (p < 0.04). All men in the study cohort were continent (0 pads) at 12 months post-RALP. Ninety-eight percent of cases and 92% of controls at 9 months and 12 months, respectively, were able to have penetrative sex with or without PDE-5 inhibitors post-RALP. Conclusion: RALP without antecedent prostate biopsy in men with PIRADS 5 lesions demonstrated substantial csPCa detection rates and superior functional outcomes, warranting further validation.

The role of multiparametric magnetic resonance ımaging in the diagnosis of granulomatous prostatitis mimicking prostate cancer.

Aimed to investigate the role of multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging (mp-MRI) in the diagnosis of granulomatous prostatitis caused by intravesical Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG). In this prospective, single-center study, 10 male patients who were given intravesical BCG due to intermediate- and high-risk bladder cancer were included. Before transurethral resection of bladder tumors (TURB), all patients were evaluated by mp-MRI, serum prostate-specific antigen (PSA), and digital rectal examination (DRE). Serum PSA levels and DRE findings were evaluated before and after intravesical BCG treatment. Prostate mp-MRI was performed for patients with elevated levels of serum PSA and/or with abnormal DRE findings. Then, MRI fusion + systematic prostate biopsy was performed. Demographic data of the patients before and after intravesical BCG were compared. The average age of the patients was 66.9years (55-87years). While PSA was 1.7ng/ml before intravesical BCG treatment, it was 4.3ng/ml after intravesical BCG treatment (p = 0.005). PSA density (PSAD) was 0.04 and 0.10 before and after the treatment, respectively (p = 0.012). DRE findings of all patients were normal before the treatment. However, abnormal findings were detected in 80% of them after the treatment (p = 0.008). PI-RADS ≥ 3 lesions were found to be significantly higher in all patients after intravesical BCG (p = 0.004). Granulomatous prostatitis is a rare complication of intravesical BCG. High PSA, abnormal DRE, and PI-RADS ≥ 3 lesions detected after intravesical BCG should suggest granulomatous prostatitis and unnecessary biopsies may be avoided.

Development and validation of an imageless machine-learning algorithm for the initial screening of prostate cancer.

Prostate specific antigen (PSA) testing is a low-cost screening method for prostate cancer (PCa). However, its accuracy is limited. While progress is being made using medical imaging for PCa screening, PSA testing can still be improved as an easily accessible first step in the screening process. We aimed to develop and validate a new model by further personalizing the analysis of PSA with demographic, medical history, lifestyle parameters, and digital rectal examination (DRE) results. Using data from 34,224 patients in the screening arm of the PLCO trial (22,188 for the training set and 12,036 for the validation set), we applied a gradient-boosting model whose features (Model 1) were one PSA value and the personal variables available in the PLCO trial except those that signaled an ex-anteassumption of PCa. A second algorithm (Model 2) included a DRE result. The primary outcome was the occurrence of PCa, while the aggressiveness of PCa was a secondary outcome. ROC analyses were used to compare both models to other initial screening tests. The areas under the curve(AUC) for Model 2 was 0.894 overall and 0.908 for patients with a suspicious DRE, compared to 0.808 for PSA for patients with a suspicious DRE. The AUC for Model 1 was 0.814 compared to 0.821 for PSA. Model 2 predicted 58% more high-risk PCa than PSA ≥4 combined with an abnormal DRE and had a positive predictive value of 74.7% (vs. 50.6%). Personalizing the interpretation of PSA values and DRE results with a gradient-boosting model showed promising results as a potential novel, low-cost method for the initial screening of PCa. The importance of DRE, when included in such a model, was also highlighted.

Negative magnetic resonance imaging cannot be used to omit an initial prostate biopsy - An ambispective study

IntroductionUp to 40% of patients with suspected prostate cancer (PCa) have a negative prebiopsy magnetic resonance imaging (nMRI), and up to 15% of them may have clinically significant PCa (csPCa). The ability to predict the presence of csPCa despite nMRI may help avoid unnecessary biopsies. We aimed to determine the negative predictive value (NPV) of mpMRI, the influence of MRI reporting patterns in clinical practice, and the factors that might predict csPCa among men with an nMRI. MethodologyIn an IRB-approved, ambispective study, men who underwent prostate biopsy from 2016 to 2023 and had a prebiopsy MRI, were included to determine the presence of csPCa. The reporting patterns of institutional and noninstitutional MRI were evaluated. Age, digital rectal examination (DRE) findings, prostate specific antigen (PSA), PSA density (PSAD), and MRI reports were evaluated for their ability to predict csPCa in men with nMRI. Results1660 patients who underwent prostate biopsy were assessed for eligibility, and 685 patients were enrolled in the study. The median age, PSA and PSAD were 60 years, 11.63 ng/ml and 0.23 ng/ml/cm3, respectively. 62 (9%) men had an nMRI, among which csPCa, non-csPCa, and negative biopsy were found in 34%, 5%, and 61% of men, respectively. 61% had an institutional MRI, while 39% had a noninstitutional MRI. The sensitivity and NPV of any MRI for csPCa were 93% and 66%, respectively, which improved to 96% and 81% for institutional MRI. Univariate and multivariate analyses showed abnormal DRE and PSAD ≥0.25 ng/ml/cc as predictive factors for csPCa in men with an nMRI. Conclusion34% of men with negative MRIs were found to harbor csPCa on prostate biopsy. The NPV of institutional MRI was higher than for noninstitutional MRI. Men with an abnormal DRE or PSAD ≥0.25 ng/ml/cc had a higher incidence of csPCa despite an nMRI.

A Community-Based Prostate Cancer Screening and Education Program for Asian American Men in Medically Underserved Communities.

This study analyzed data from a community-based prostate cancer (PCa) education and screening program (Prostate Outreach Project; POP) to enhance PCa-related knowledge among medically underserved Asian American men. It also examined PCa screening history, clinical abnormalities based on prostate-specific antigen (PSA) tests and digital rectal examination (DRE) results, and follow-up and PCa diagnosis rates. Participants-521 Asian men (251 Vietnamese, 142 Chinese, and 128 South Asians)-were offered PCa screening using PSA tests and/or DRE and an educational session on PCa. Of these men, 277 completed PCa-related knowledge surveys before and after viewing an educational video. Significant between-group differences in PCa-related knowledge were found at pre-assessment (p < 0.001) but not at post-assessment (p = 0.11), at which time all groups showed improved PCa-related knowledge. Most participants (77.9%) had never received PCa screening, but Vietnamese men had the lowest previous screening rate (17.3%). Chinese men had elevated PSA values and the highest abnormal DRE rates. Of the 125 men with abnormal screening outcomes, only 15.2% had adequate follow-up. Of the 144 men diagnosed with PCa in POP, 11.1% were Asians (seven Chinese, six Vietnamese, and three South Asian). Despite the ethnic heterogeneity among Asian men, a community outreach program may successfully enhance their PCa-related knowledge.

Is multiparametric MRI always needed in biopsy-naïve patients with abnormal digital rectal examination? A single-institutional experience combining clinical and micro-ultrasonography-based factors to optimize prostate cancer detection.

To assess the diagnostic performance of microultrasound-targeted biopsy (microUSTBx) and systematic biopsy (SBx) in detecting clinically significant prostate cancer (csPCa) among men with abnormal digital rectal examination (DRE) and suspicious lesions at multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging (mpMRI), and to compare the diagnostic performance of this approach with a mpMRI-guided targeted biopsy (MTBx) plus SBx-based strategy. Biopsy-naïve men with suspicious lesions at mpMRI and abnormal DRE were prospectively evaluated between October 2017 and January 2023. csPCa detection rate by microUSTBx plus SBx and MTBx plus SBx was assessed and then compared by McNemar's test. The added value of prostate-specific antigen density (PSAd) was also evaluated. Overall, 182 biopsy naïve men were included. MicroUSTBx plus SBx achieved comparable detection rate to MTBx plus SBx in diagnosis of ciPCa and csPCa (ciPCa: 9.3% [17/182] vs 10% [19/182]; csPCa: 63% [114/182] vs 62% [113/182]). MicroUSTBx outperformed MTBx (ciPCa: 5.5% [10/182] vs 6.0% [11/182]; csPCa: 57% [103/182] vs 54% [99/182]). Using microUSTBx plus SBx would have avoided 68/182 (37%) unnecessary mpMRI, while missing only 2/116 (1.7%) csPCa. The decision curve analysis of suspicious microUS plus PSAd ≥ 0.15ng/ml showed higher net benefit in the ability to identify true positives and reduce the number of unnecessary prostate biopsy in this subcategory of patients. The combination of microUSTBx and SBx showed equal diagnostic performance to an mpMRI-based approach in biopsy-naïve patients with an abnormal DRE. The combination of this approach with PSAd maximize the diagnostic accuracy while lowering the need for unnecessary biopsies.

Outcome of diode laser vaporization for high risk patients with ‎benign prostatic hyperplasia.

Objective: To determine the outcome of laser vaporization of prostate using diode at 980/1470 nm for the treatment of BPH among high risk patients. Study Design: Longitudinal Observational Study. Setting: Shalamar Hospital, Lahore. Period: June 2009 till June 2022. Material &amp; Methods: Total of 500 patients with associated co-morbid illnesses and benign prostate hyperplasia not responding to medical therapy, failed trial without catheter, chronic urinary retention, refusal for TURP were assessed for eligibility to enter the study. Inclusion criteria were patients with refractory urinary retention, chronic urinary retention, failure of previous medical treatment. Exclusion criteria were patients with neurogenic bladder, carcinoma of prostate, carcinoma of bladder, abnormal digital rectal examination, known neurological disorder or history of spinal cord injury also were excluded from study. Results: The patients’ mean age ‎was 68.57 ± 7.98 years, Baseline mean maximum urinary flow rate was 5.57±‎2.44 mL/s, post void residual was 130.91‎±‎24.18 mL, and international prostate symptom score was 26.09 ‎±‎2.40 at preoperative. At 3 months follow-up, Qmax was 23.31±‎8.0, PVR was 22.43±5.21 and IPSS was 7.27‎±‎1.42. On the other hand, mean Qmax was 25.83‎±‎6.84 mL/s, PVR was 18.38‎±‎4.53 mL, and IPSS was 5.29 ±‎0.61 at 6 months follow-up. Conclusion:Treatment of BPH by 980/1470 nm diode laser have effective and safe clinical outcome for high risk patients as we found significant improvements in Qmax, IPSS, and PVR at 3 months and 6 months follow up.

P018 - Is multiparametric MRI always needed in biopsy-naïve patients with abnormal digital rectal examination? A single-institutional experience combining clinical and micro-ultrasonography based factors to optimize prostate cancer detection.

P018 - Is multiparametric MRI always needed in biopsy-naïve patients with abnormal digital rectal examination? A single-institutional experience combining clinical and micro-ultrasonography based factors to optimize prostate cancer detection.

Evaluation of the effectiveness of the prostate biopsy at the Saint Jean De Dieu Hospital of Tanguieta

Introduction: Prostate cancer is the most common and the second leading cause of cancer death in men in most developed countries. Prostate biopsy remains the gold standard to confirm its diagnosis. Material and Method: This is a prospective study during 6 months, starting from 1st of February to 31st of July 2022. It included all patients who underwent a prostate biopsy that was carried out either following a high tPSA or due to an abnormal digital rectal examination. Results: We performed digitally guided biopsies in 32 patients from whom, average age was 72.43 years and elevation of total PSA was the main reason (71.88%) behind biopsies. The mean total PSA level was 45.69 ng/ml. The tissues removed were essentially prostate tissues, malignant in 28.12% of cases with adenocarcinoma as the only histological type. Conclusion: Prostate biopsy remains the gold standard for the diagnosis of prostate cancer. When indicated in front of an abnormal digital rectal examination, the probabilities of positivity of the samples are high even in the case of digitally guided biopsies in an under-equipped environment.

Evaluation of Patients Referred for Abnormal Digital Rectal Examination With Normal Prostate-Specific Antigen on Best Timed Pathway for Prostate Cancer.

Introduction Currently, there is no recommendation for adjustments to the Best Timed Pathway for Prostate cancer (BTiPP) depending on whether the referral is for raised prostate-specific antigen (PSA) or malignant-feeling prostate on digital rectal examination (DRE). Therefore, all patients undergo MRI scanning.We aim to establish if patients with abnormal DRE only (without raised PSA) should have an adjusted pathway by comparing the biopsy rate and diagnostic yield after an MRI scan. Methods All BTiPP 2021 referral patient notes were reviewed. The patients were categorized into the aDRE group (abnormal DRE with normal PSA) or the rPSA group (raised PSA with or without abnormal DRE).Data and results for MRI and prostate biopsy were evaluated.Diagnostic yield was defined as the percentage of patients who underwent an MRI, who were diagnosed with biopsy-proven cancer. Results 68.5% (74/108) and 70.9% (282/398) of patients underwent upfront MRI in the aDRE and rPSA groups, respectively.Following MRI, the biopsy rate (28.4% (21/74) vs. 42.9% (121/282) (p=0.02)) and the biopsy-proven diagnostic yield (20.3% (15/74) vs. 36.9% (104/282) (p<0.01)) were both significantly lower in the aDRE group. 58% (43/74) of patients in the aDRE group had no posterior lesions on MRI.Only 6.7% (1/15) of biopsy-proven cancers in the aDRE group were solely anterior. Conclusions After MRI, the biopsy rate and diagnostic yield were significantly lower in the aDRE group compared to the rPSA group. Furthermore, a majority of patients referred for aDRE had a normal posterior prostate appearance on MRI. An adjusted pathway for patients referred for aDRE with normal PSA, with DRE by a urologist prior to MRI, should be considered as it would likely reduce unnecessary investigations, treatment, and patient anxiety. These data suggest that this would not risk missing significant cancers.

Poster 16 - Is digital rectal examination in the community of value in prostate cancer detection? A retrospective review of prostate cancer rates among patients referred to rapid access prostate clinic services with abnormal primary care digital rectal examination findings

Poster 16 - Is digital rectal examination in the community of value in prostate cancer detection? A retrospective review of prostate cancer rates among patients referred to rapid access prostate clinic services with abnormal primary care digital rectal examination findings

Prostate Biopsy in the Case of PIRADS 5-Is Systematic Biopsy Mandatory?

Combining systematic biopsy (SB) with targeted biopsy (TB) in the case of a positive result from multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging (mpMRI) is a matter of debate. The Prostate Imaging Reporting and Data System (PIRADS) score of 5 indicates the highest probability of clinically significant prostate cancer (csPC) detection in TB. Potentially, omitting SB in the case of PIRADS 5 may have a marginal impact on the csPC detection rate. The aim of this study was to determine whether SB can be avoided in the case of PIRADS 5 and to identify potential factors allowing for performing TB only. This cohort study involved n = 225 patients with PIRADS 5 on mpMRI (PIRADS 2.0/2.1) who underwent transperineal or transrectal combined biopsy (CB). CsPC was diagnosed in 51.6% (n = 116/225) of cases. TB and SB resulted in the detection of csPC in 48% (n = 108/225) and 20.4% (n = 46/225) of cases, respectively (TB vs. SB, p < 0.001). When the TB was positive, SB detected csPC in n = 38 of the cases (38/108 = 35%). SB added to TB significantly improved csPC detection in 6.9% of cases in absolute terms (n = 8/116) (TB vs. CB, p = 0.008). The multivariate regression model proved that the significant predictors of csPC detection via SB were the densities of the prostate-specific antigen-PSAD > 0.17 ng/mL2 (OR = 4.038, 95%CI: 1.568-10.398); primary biopsy setting (OR = 2.818, 95%CI: 1.334-5.952); and abnormal digital rectal examination (DRE) (OR = 2.746, 95%CI: 1.328-5.678). In a primary biopsy setting (n = 103), SB detected 10% (n = 6/60) of the additional cases of csPC (p = 0.031), while in a repeat biopsy setting (n = 122), SB detected 3.5% (n = 2/56) of the additional cases of csPC (p = 0.5). In the case of PSAD > 0.17 ng/mL2 (n = 151), SB detected 7.4% (n = 7/95) of additional cases of csPC (p = 0.016), while in the case of PSAD < 0.17 ng/mL2 (n = 74), SB detected 4.8% (n = 1/21) of the additional cases of csPC (p = 1.0). The omission of SB had an impact on the csPC diagnosis rate in patients with PIRADS 5 score lesions. Patients who have already undergone prostate biopsy and those with low PSAD are at a lower risk of missing csPC when SB is avoided. However, performing TB only may result in missing other csPC foci located outside the index lesion, which can alter treatment decisions.

Results of Transrectal Ultrasound-Guided Prostate Biopsy by the Method of 12 Cores at Can Tho University Hospital

Background: Prostate cancer is a common disease in men, with the second-highest incidence rate and the fifth-highest mortality rate worldwide. Diagnoses to determine prostate cancer need to be based on factors such as rectal examination, total PSA in serum, and the result of a prostate biopsy. Our study aimed to evaluate the results of rectal prostate biopsies of 12 cores under the direction of ultrasound. Objectives: Assess results of transrectal ultrasound-guided prostate biopsy by the method of 12 cores. Methods: This was cross-sectional research of 60 patients with prostate tumors with indications for biopsy from 5/2021 to 5/2022 at the Can Tho University of Medicine and Pharmacy Hospital. Our research conducts medical history and patient history to score 2 points on IPSS (International Prostate Syndrome Score) and QoL (Quality of Life Index), and we use the descriptive statistic method to analyze data. The indications for the prostate biopsy were abnormal digital rectal examination findings and/or an elevated serum total prostate-specific antigen (PSA) level (greater than 10 ng/mL). The participants received prophylactic vein bacsulfo (1000 mg) and oral metronidazol (500 mg) before and maintained continued after about 3 days. A Fleet enema was self-administered the night before the procedure for rectal cleansing. Results: The average age of patients was 68.72, and the most common reason for hospitalization was dysuria at 80%. The average IPSS was 26.21 ± 4.49, the average QoL was 3.38 ± 0.67, and the average total PSA was 26.11 ng/mL. The prostate cancer detection rate after the biopsy was 40% (24/60). Gleason’s scores determined accounted for 45.83% (11/24) from 8 points or more. There were two cases of strong rectal bleeding (3.33%) and one case of strong hematuria (1.67%). Conclusions: Transrectal ultrasound-guided prostate biopsy is valuable in the diagnosis of prostate cancer and feasible at our hospital.

Transperineal vs transrectal magnetic resonance and ultrasound image fusion prostate biopsy: a pair-matched comparison

The objective of this study was to compare transperineal (TP) versus transrectal (TR) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and transrectal ultrasound (TRUS) fusion prostate biopsy (PBx). Consecutive men who underwent prostate MRI followed by a systematic biopsy. Additional target biopsies were performed from Prostate Imaging Reporting & Data System (PIRADS) 3–5 lesions. Men who underwent TP PBx were matched 1:2 with a synchronous cohort undergoing TR PBx by PSA, Prostate volume (PV) and PIRADS score. Endpoint of the study was the detection of clinically significant prostate cancer (CSPCa; Grade Group ≥ 2). Univariate and multivariable analyses were performed. Results were considered statistically significant if p < 0.05. Overall, 504 patients met the inclusion criteria. A total of 168 TP PBx were pair-matched to 336 TR PBx patients. Baseline demographics and imaging characteristics were similar between the groups. Per patient, the CSPCa detection was 2.1% vs 6.3% (p = 0.4) for PIRADS 1–2, and 59% vs 60% (p = 0.9) for PIRADS 3–5, on TP vs TR PBx, respectively. Per lesion, the CSPCa detection for PIRADS 3 (21% vs 16%; p = 0.4), PIRADS 4 (51% vs 44%; p = 0.8) and PIRADS 5 (76% vs 84%; p = 0.3) was similar for TP vs TR PBx, respectively. However, the TP PBx showed a longer maximum cancer core length (11 vs 9 mm; p = 0.02) and higher cancer core involvement (83% vs 65%; p < 0.001) than TR PBx. Independent predictors for CSPCa detection were age, PSA, PV, abnormal digital rectal examination findings, and PIRADS 3–5. Our study demonstrated transperineal MRI/TRUS fusion PBx provides similar CSPCa detection, with larger prostate cancer core length and percent of core involvement, than transrectal PBx.

Comparison of Serum Gamma Glutamyl Transferase Levels between Prostate Cancer Patients and Their Healthy Peers.

Prostate cancer (PCa) is the most common cancer affecting men, apart from cutaneous cancers. Serum prostate specific antigen (PSA) levels are frequently used to predict prostate cancer diagnosis. However, many causes (e.g., prostatitis, benign prostate obstruction, urethral catheterization) may cause elevated PSA, in addition to PCa. We aimed to investigate the gamma glutamyl transferase (GGT) levels, a serum biomarker not affected by situations other than cancer causing elevated PSA. The study evaluated male patients with prostate biopsy due to high serum PSA levels and/or abnormal digital rectal examination (DRE) examined in Ordu University Education and Research Hospital, Ordu/Turkey urology clinic from April 2019 to April 2021. The patient group in the study included 261 men with PCa diagnosis and the control group included 245 healthy men with normal PSA levels, and no PCa and/or benign prostate obstruction (BPO). The two groups were compared in terms of serum GGT levels. GGT was significantly low in the PCa group and might be a predictor in terms of PCa (P=0.000). In the malignant (PCa) group, the GGT cut-off value was identified as 21.5 (sensitivity 68.6%, specificity 54.4%). Serum GGT levels might assist in diagnosis of PCa. However, diagnostic power is weak due to low specificity. There is a need for studies investigating the efficacy of GGT levels for prediction of PCa diagnosis and assessing other parameters alongside GGT.

Are magnetic resonance imaging and targeted biopsies needed in men with serum prostate-specific antigen over 10 ng/ml and an abnormal digital rectal examination?

The European Association of Urology currently recommends the use of risk-organized models to decrease the demand of prebiopsy magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and unnecessary prostate biopsies in men with suspected prostate cancer (CaP). Low evidence suggests that men with prostate-specific antigen >10 ng/ml and an abnormal digital rectal examination (DRE) do not benefit from prebiopsy MRI and targeted biopsies. We aim to validate this low evidence in a sizable cohort and knowing how many clinically significant CaP (csCaP) would go undetected if only random biopsies were performed in these cases. We analyze a subset of 545 men with PSA >10 ng/ml and an abnormal DRE who met the previous criteria among 5,329 participants in a prospective trial in whom random biopsy was always performed and targeted biopsies of PI-RADS ≥3 lesions (10.2%). CsCaP (grade group ≥2) was detected in 370 men (67.9%), with 11 of 49 with negative MRI (22.5%) and 359 of 496 (72.4%) having PI-RADS ≥3. CsCaP was identified in random and targeted biopsies in 317 (88.7%) men, in targeted biopsies only in 23 (6.4%), and in random biopsies only in 19 (5.3%). If only random biopsies were performed in these men, 23 of overall 1,914 csCaP (1.2%) would go undetected in this population. Prebiopsy MRI can be saved in men with serum PSA >10 ng/ml and an abnormal DRE and only random biopsy performed. However, a close follow-up of men with negative random biopsy seems appropriate due to the high-risk of csCaP in these men.

Targeted Biopsy in Men High Risk for Prostate Cancer: 68Ga-PSMA PET/CT Versus mpMRI

Introduction/BackgroundTo evaluate the accuracy of 68Ga-PSMA PET/CT versus mpMRI targeted biopsy (TPBx) in the diagnosis of clinically significant prostate cancer (csPCa) in men high risk for PCa. Materials and MethodsFrom January 2021 to March 2023, 125 men with clinical parameters high risk for PCa were evaluated by mpMRI and 68Ga-PSMA PET/CT; median PSA was 32.5 ng/mL (range: 12-160 ng/mL) and 60/125 (48%) had abnormal digital rectal examination. The mpMRI lesions with PI-RADS scores ≥ 3 and/or 68Ga-PSMA areas characterized by a standardized uptake value (SUVmax) values ≥ 8 were submitted to TPBx (4 cores); in addition, all the patients underwent systematic transperineal prostate biopsy (18 cores) under sedation and antibiotic prophylaxis. ResultsIn 80 of 125 men (64%) a csPCa was found: 10 (12.5%) had a ISUP Grade Group 3 (GG), 45 (56.2%) a ISUP GG4 and 25 (31.2%) ISUP GG5. The median intraprostatic 68Ga-PSMA SUVmax was 42.3 (range:10.5-164) and 72 of 80 (90%) had a PI-RADS score ≥ 3. 68GaPSMA PET/CT showed the presence of metastases in 20 of 80 (25%) men: the median SUVmax in bone (15 cases) and nodes (40 cases) metastases was 55 and 47, respectively. Accuracy of 68Ga PSMA PET/CT (SUVmax cut-off ≥ 8) versus mpMRI PI-RADS score ≥ 3 in the diagnosis of csPCa was 92 versus 86.2%. Conclusion68GaPSMA PET/CT demonstrated a good diagnostic accuracy as a single procedure for the diagnosis and staging of high-risk PCa.

Standard 12-Core Transrectal Ultrasound-Guided Prostate Biopsy, a Useful Tool in Screening for Prostate Cancer: A Prospective Study in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria

Introduction: Guided prostate biopsy is still relevant in confirming the diagnosis of suspected prostate cancer. Objective: This study evaluated the role of Transrectal Ultrasound (TRUS) guided biopsy along with histopathological evaluation in the detection of prostate cancer on the basis of abnormal digital rectal examination (DRE) findings and elevated prostate specific antigen levels (PSA). Participants and Methods: This prospective study was undertaken among consenting men aged 40 years and above screened for prostate cancer at the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital using targeted, stepwise protocol including DRE, PSA and standard 12-core transrectal ultrasound guided biopsy technique. Biopsy samples were sent for histopathological evaluation. Findings were documented, analyzed and presented in tables and figures. Results: Among 437 participants, abnormal DRE findings, elevated PSA level above 4.0 ng/ml and abnormal TRUS findings were 17.2%, 21.1%, and 17.3% respectively. Of 44 participants who had prostate biopsies with histopathologic assessment, benign prostatic diseases were 24 cases (54.5%), slightly outnumbering malignant prostatic diseases seen in 20 (45.5%).The prostate cancer detection and prevalence rates were 45.5% and 4.6% respectively. Prostatic adenocarcinoma (45.5%), nodular hyperplasia (45.5%), basal cell hyperplasia (6.8%) and high grade prostatic intraepithelial neoplasia (2.2%) were identified histologic subtypes. Nodular hyperplasia was commonly associated with chronic prostatitis (80.0%). A significant association between DRE findings, outline of prostate, and tumour subtype was ascertained. Conclusion: Targeted screening protocol encompassing TRUS guided 12- core biopsy is a final arbiter in the diagnosis of prostate cancer and has a fairly high prostate cancer detection rate of 45.5%.

(233) Treatment of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia. How to Preseve the Ejaculatory Function with the Transperineal Laser Ablation of the Prostate

Abstract Introduction Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) can be the cause of Lower urinary tract symptomps (LUTS). Endoscopic treatments like the trans-urethral resection of the prostate (TURP) is still the gold standard technique to treat this condition. This technique often leads to sexual dysfunction as retrograde ejaculation. Objective The objective of the study was to evaluate the safety and the efficacy of this new technique. The transperineal laser ablation of the prostate (TPLA) is a new minimal invasive technique used to treat BPH that reduces the prostate volume preserving the ejaculatory function. Methods This is a prospective study done in accordance with the Declaration of Helsinki. 168 patients (pts) (age 60.5 ± 10.5 years) with LUTS and BPH were enrolled. Mean prostate volume was 71.5 ± 25.5 m (from 30 to 100 grams). Inclusions criteria were: Peak urinary flow (Q max): ≤15 mL/sec, International Prostatic Symptoms Score (IPSS) &amp;gt;19, Postvoid residual (PVR): &amp;gt; 100 mL. Exclusion criteria were: catheterized pts, history of neurodegenerative disease, positive urinary culture, prostate volume &amp;gt; 100 grams, Clinical suspicion of prostate cancer (Abnormal digital rectal examination, PSA levels). The procedure was performed under local anaesthesia (Periprostatic nerve block) plus sedation. Under US guidance, up to four 21G applicators with a length of 15 cm were inserted into the prostate tissue. Each treatment was performed with diode lasers operating at 980 nm with 1800 joules per lobe at a power of 5 watts. The primary endpoint was the reduction of prostate volume (misured at 6 months follow-up) and preservation of the ejaculation in the treated pts. Secondary endpoints included operating time, ablation time, energy used, hospitalization time, catheterization time and International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) variation, quality of life (QoL), Q max and PVR. Results All procedures have been successful from a technical point of view. The average operating time was (38 ± 6.5 min) and the average ablation time was (12.4 ± 2.8 min). The average energy used was (11.622 ± 4350.5 J), the average hospital stay was (1.7 ± 0.2 days) and the average catheterization time was (6.1 ± 4.0 days.) At 6 months, IPSS improved from (22.5±2.1 points) to (12.3±1.8 points) (P &amp;lt; 0.001). QoL was improved from (4.8±0.2) to (1.8. ± 0.3) (P &amp;lt; 0.05) and Q max was improved from (4.6 ± 3.1 mL/s) to (12.8 ±2.6 mL/s) (P &amp;lt; 0.001). Moreover, PVR was improved from (120±59.3 ml) to (46.7±27.9ml) (P&amp;lt;0.001); the average prostate volume at 6 months improved from (71.5 ± 25.5 grams) to (48.8 ± 21.8 grams) (P &amp;lt; 0.05). 130 out of 150 sexually active subjects (86.6%) maintained ejaculation following treatment at 6 months. 44 subjects (26,5%) needed recatheterization for acute urinary retention. Perineal pain was reported in 5 subjects, urethrorrhagia in 8 subjects. Conclusions TPLA is a safe, feasible and promising procedure for the treatment of LUTS in BPH. This procedure induces coagulative necrosis in the treated tissue, reducing the prostate volume while preserving the ejaculatory function Disclosure No

Relationship between Proclarix and the Aggressiveness of Prostate Cancer.

Proclarix is a CE-marked test that provides the risk of clinically significant prostate cancer (csPCa), ranging from 0% to 100%, based on the serum measurement of Thrombospondin-1, cathepsin D, prostate-specific antigen (PSA), and percentage of free PSA in addition to age. We hypothesize that Proclarix could be correlated with PCa aggressiveness. We analyzed the association of this new biomarker with four surrogates of aggressiveness: grade group (GG) in the biopsy, clinical stage, risk of biochemical recurrence after primary treatment of localized PCa, and pathology in the surgical specimen. This is a retrospective study from 606 men with suspicion of PCa [PSA of ≥3.0ng/mL and/or abnormal digital rectal examination (DRE)], in whom Proclarix was assessed (0-100%). The GG was defined by the International Society of Urological Pathology categories. The TNM was used for clinical staging (cT based on DRE, whereas cN and cM were established with computed tomography and 99-technetium bone scintigraphy). The risk of biochemical recurrence of localized PCa after primary treatment was defined by combining PSA, GG, and cT. Finally, an unfavorable pathology in a surgical specimen was defined as GG> 2 or pT≥ 3. The median age of the cohort was 67yearsold, with a median PSA of 7ng/mL and a rate of abnormal DRE of 23.3%. CsPCa was detected in 254 men (41.9%), with a median Proclarix of 60.1% compared with 37.3% obtained in patients with insignificant PCa and 20.7% in men without PCa. Among patients with GG > 3, Proclarix was significantly higher (58.2%) than in those with GG of 3 or lower (33.1%, p< 0.001). Men with localized tumors exhibited a Proclarix median of 37.3% compared with those with advanced disease (60.1%, p< 0.001). Proclarix levels among 197 patients with low and intermediate risk of biochemical recurrence were 24.9% and 35.0%, respectively, significantly lower compared with patients with high-risk disease (58.7%, p< 0.001). Unfavorable pathology was observed in 35 patients out of the 79 who underwent radical prostatectomy, with a Proclarix median of 35.7% compared with 23.7% obtained in patients with favorable pathology (p= 0.013). Proclarix and magnetic resonance imaging were independent predictors of the four surrogates of aggressiveness analyzed. There is a correlation between Proclarix and the aggressiveness of PCa.