Transrectal Ultrasound-guided Prostate Research Articles

422 Local Anaesthetic Trans-Perineal Prostate Biopsy: Outcomes from Our First 250 Cases

Abstract Aim Trans-perineal ultrasound prostate biopsy (TPBx) with prior multiparametric MRI (mpMRI) represents the standard of care in prostate cancer diagnostic. We present our first experience with TPBx in our unit. We also looked at discrepancies between the mpMRI and the TPBx results. Method We performed a retrospective analysis of collected data from all the patients who underwent TPBx following mpMRI from March 2021 to June 2022. All patients had combined systematic and targeted prostate biopsies. Results The total 250 patients underwent TPBx. 10 patients were already known to have prostate cancer. The mean age was 69 years. The average PSA value was PSA: 8.41 ng/ml with an average PSA density of 0.23. 43 patients underwent previous transrectal ultrasound-guided prostate (TRUS) biopsy while 207 patients were biopsy naïve. The overall cancer detection rate was 76 %. In 25 % of patients, there were some discrepancies between the mpMRI lesion site and histology results. Majority of the histology results were ISUP grade group 2, 30 % of the case, grade group 3 in 22 % of the cases, grade group 4 in 14 % of the cases, grade group 1 in 6% of the cases grade group 5 in 2 % of the cases. Conclusions A higher PIRADs score is likely to be associated with a higher -grade group histology. Our cancer detection rate is acceptable in comparison to TRUS prostate biopsy (76 % vs 40 %), however there are some discrepancies between the mpMRI and biopsy results which suggests additional criteria are needed to aid in decision management (like PSA density).

Evaluation of Initial 24-core Transrectal Prostate Biopsy on the Detection of Significant Prostate Cancer and High-grade Prostatic Intraepithelial Neoplasia

Abstract Purpose: The purpose of the study was to assess the diagnostic value of an initial 24-sample transrectal ultrasound-guided (TRUS) prostate biopsy protocol compared to the 10-core technique. Materials and Methods: We retrospectively reviewed the prostate biopsy database of consecutive men undergoing prostate biopsies under local anesthesia using the 10 (Group A) and 24 (Group B) protocols. Men were stratified according to biopsy protocol and prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels. Exclusion criteria were age = 75 years and PSA >20 ng/mL. The Mann–Whitney U and Fisher’s exact test were used for statistical analysis. Results: Between November 2018 and August 2020, 169 men underwent TRUS prostate biopsies. Group A (10-cores) consisted of 105 (62.13%) men and Group B (24-cores) included 64 (37.86%) men. The overall prostate cancer detection rate was 41.05% and 36.72% in Groups A and B, respectively (P = 0.48). An overall 9.8% increase in Gleason 7 detection rate was found in Group B (P = 0.24). The high-grade prostatic intraepithelial neoplasia (HGPIN) detection rate in men with negative initial biopsies was 15.54% and 35.55% in Groups A and B, respectively (P < 0.001). In patients with PSA <10 ng/mL, the 24-core technique increased Gleason 7 detection rate by 13.4% (P = 0.16) and HGPIN by 23.4% (P = 0.0008), compared to the 10-core technique. The 24-core technique increased the concordance between needle biopsy and prostatectomy specimen compared to the 10-core technique (P < 0.002). Conclusions: The initial 24-core prostate biopsy protocol did not show any benefit in the detection of prostate cancer compared to the 10-core technique. However, it improved the HGPIN detection and the correlation between biopsy results and radical prostatectomy Gleason score in men with lower PSA levels.

Propofol with or without fentanyl for pain relief after transrectal ultrasound-guided prostate (TRUS-P) biopsy: a randomized controlled study

BackgroundPostoperative pain from transrectal ultrasound-guided prostate (TRUS-P) biopsy under sedation is often mild. Benefit of opioids used during sedation is controversial. ObjectiveThe objective was to compare numeric rating scale (NRS) score at 30 minutes after TRUS-P biopsy between patients receiving propofol alone or with fentanyl. MethodsWe randomly allocated 124 patients undergoing TRUS-P biopsy to receive either fentanyl 0.5 mcg.kg-1 (Group F) or normal saline (Group C). Both groups received titrated propofol sedation via Target-controlled infusion (TCI) with Schneider model until the Observer's Assessment of Alertness/Sedation (OAA/S) scale 0–1 was achieved. Hemodynamic variables, patient movement, postoperative pain score, patient and surgeon satisfaction score were recorded. ResultsOverall, most patients (97.5%) had no to mild pain. Group F had significantly lower median NRS score at 30 minutes compared to Group C (0 [0, 0] vs. 0 [0, 0.25], p = 0.039). More patients in Group C experienced pain (90% vs. 75.8%, p = 0.038). Perioperative hypotension was higher in group F (81.7%) compared to Group C (61.3%) (p = 0.013). Thirty-five (56.5%) patients in Group F and 25 (42.7%) patients in Group C had movement during the procedure (p = 0.240). Surgeon’s satisfaction score was higher in Group F (10 [9, 10]) than Group C (9 [9, 10]) (p = 0.037). ConclusionCombining low dose fentanyl with TCI propofol sedation may provide additional benefit on postoperative pain after TRUS-P biopsy, but results in perioperative hypotension. Fentanyl may attenuate patient movement during the procedure, which leads to greater surgeon’s satisfaction.

Level of Prostate Cancer Diagnosis Using MRI-TRUS Fusion Biopsy in Patients with a Negative History of TRUS Biopsy

Background: Given the popularity of prostate specific antigen (PSA) testing in recent years, the number of patients undergoing diagnostic prostate biopsy has increased. The transrectal ultrasound-guided (TRUS) biopsy is considered as the gold standard for prostate cancer detection, although has a low sensitivity. Objectives: The current study aimed at enhancing prostate cancer diagnosis using MRI-TRUS fusion biopsy in patients with negative history of TRUS biopsy. Methods: In the current study, patients undergone TRUS prostate biopsy with benign results that were candidates for repeat biopsy were recruited. After making the preparations, patients underwent magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-TRUS fusion biopsy. Gleason score, the number of involved cores, perineural invasion, perilymphovascular invasion, and the percentage of core involvement were recorded. Results: Of the 191 patients, 70 (36.6%) had positive biopsies. The frequency of non-detectable cancers by targeted biopsy based on the level of cancer risk showed that at the very high-risk level, five (29.4%) and at high-risk level, two (11.7%) subjects were not recognized. The mean Gleason score in targeted (7.47 ± 0.99) and random (7.13 ± 1.04) positive biopsies showed a significant difference between the two groups (P = 0.045). Targeted biopsies are better than random ones to detect high-risk (33.9% vs 29.2%, P = 0.013 respectively) and very high-risk cancers (45.3% vs. 41.5%, P = 0.05 respectively). Conclusions: The combination of both biopsy approaches is suggested to offer a reliable method with high rate of tumor detection.

04:21 PM Abstract No. 382 MRI-fused cone-beam CT-guided biopsy of the prostate as a safe and novel method of prostate biopsy

3D fluoroscopy guidance using cone-beam CT (CBCT) can be fused to MRI images, allowing direct coaxial needle placement into an MRI target using the real time fluoroscopy. We describe our experience using MRI fused CBCT guidance for prostate biopsy. There are no published reports on the use of CBCT guidance in prostate biopsies. We hypothesize this technique will have an adequate safety profile while accurately detecting prostate cancer. Patients were selected for this study if they had an MRI lesion graded as PiRads 3 or greater and was clinically suspected of protate cancer by the oncologic urologist. All of our prostate biopsies were completed using MRI fused CBCT as a navigation system using a transgluteal approach. Dedicated software (XperGuide, Philips Imaging) was used to plan the approach and confirm the location of the coaxial needle prior to biopsy. Biopsies were performed using a 17/18 gauge coaxial system. The patient did not receive pre-procedure antibiotics or bowel preparation. The immediate and 30 day complication rate and biopsy results were recorded. In total, 70 patients underwent CBCT-guided biopsy. The only observed immediate or 30 day complications were 2 transient events of hematuria that were self-resolving, and one event of urinary retention treated with 1 week of indwelling Foley catheter. There were no complications related to infection or sepsis. Gleason score ≥7 was observed in 1/5 (20%) patients with a PiRads 3 lesions, 6/31 (19.4%) patients with a PiRads 4 lesion, 18/34 (52.9%) patients with a PiRads 5 lesion. When compared to previous transrectal ultrasound-guided prostate (TRUSP) biopsy, PiRads 5 lesions were more likely to be upgraded to Gleason score ≥7 (18/34 patients) then PiRads 3 (1/5) or PiRads 4 lesions (6/31). MRI fused CBCT guidance targeted biopsy of suspected prostate cancer is technically feasible in our experience with 70 patients. Its complication profile is favorable when compared to TRUSP biopsies. It has the potential to upstage disease in patients with high PI-RADS lesions on MRI and previously negative or low Gleason score on TRUSP biopsies.

Transrectal Ultrasound-guided Versus Transperineal Mapping Prostate Biopsy: Complication Comparison.

Herein, the authors compare morbidity in men who underwent both transrectal ultrasound-guided (TRUS) prostate biopsy and transperineal mapping biopsy (TPMB) at two institutions with extensive experience in both procedures. We also identified strategies and predictive factors to reduce morbidity for both procedures. In our study, 379 men from two institutions, of which 265 (69.9%) had a prior TRUS-guided biopsy, also had TPMB performed via a template with biopsies taken at 5-mm intervals. Men in the TRUS group had a median of 12 cores sampled whereas the TPMB group had 51.5 (range, 16-151). The median biopsy density was 1.1 core/cc prostate volume. Median age and prostate-specific antigen (PSA) level were 65 years (range, 34-86) and 5.5 ng/mL (range, 0.02-118). Of these men, 11 of 265 (4.2%) who had TRUS biopsy developed urinary tract infection compared with 3 of 379 (0.79%) of those with mapping biopsy. Infection was 14.8% in TRUS biopsy group with 13 or more cores versus 2.9% in those with 12 or less (OR, 5.8; 95% CI, 1.6-21.2; P = 0.003). No men developed retention after TRUS biopsy whereas 30 of 379 (7.9%) did following TPMB. Older age, larger prostate volume (PV), and higher core number were associated with retention. On linear regression only age (P = 0.010) and PV (P = 0.016) remained as significant associations. Men older than 65 years had 12.8% versus 3.9% (OR, 3.7; 95% CI, 1.6-8.4, P = 0.001) and PV greater than 42 cc had 13.4% versus 2.7% (OR, 5.7; 95% CI, 2.1-15.1) retention incidence. In the present study TPMB is rarely associated with infection (0.78%) but more commonly with urinary retention (7.9%). Men older than 65 years and with PV greater than 42 cc were at four to five times greater retention risk. Consideration should be given to discharging these men with a urinary catheter following TPMB.

Prostatic Calculi: Do They Matter?

Prostatic calculi (PC) are frequently detected at computed tomography or ultrasound in men attending the health center or the urology outpatient department. PC have attracted more attention from urologists, but the clinical significance of PC is unknown. To review the available literature on the effects of PC on prostatic diseases and sexual function in men. Relevant clinical trials were identified by searching the PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases. Results were classified, summarized, and analyzed. Transabdominal and rectal ultrasonography; urodynamics analysis; International Prostate Symptom Score; pathologic examination of prostatic tissue; prostate-specific antigen; and expressed prostatic secretion. PC can not only prolong the duration of bothersome symptoms but also decrease the cure rate of antibacterial therapy in patients with chronic prostatitis. Patients with PC usually have more severe lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS), and some studies reported that moderate to marked PC are a predisposing factor for moderate to severe LUTS. Studies also reported that the serum level prostate-specific antigen is not influenced by PC. In addition, the presence of PC is not associated with an increased risk of prostate cancer. However, the correlation between PC in the peripheral zone and prostate cancer is statistically significant. In addition, the association between PC and Gleason scores is controversial. Some novel studies suggested that PC might play an important role in sexual impairment in middle-age men or men with chronic pelvic pain syndrome or chronic prostatitis. Recently, PC were found to increase the incidence of severe LUTS, urinary retention, and hematospermia after transrectal ultrasound-guided prostate biopsy. PC can aggravate LUTS, chronic prostatitis, and sexual dysfunction in men, but the association between PC and prostate cancer is still controversial. Cao J-J, Huang W, Wu H-S, etal. Prostatic Calculi: DoThey Matter? Sex Med Rev 2018;6:482-491.

One day hospitalization for trans-rectal ultrasound guided prostate biopsy: Experiences of a single institution

ObjectiveTo investigate one-day hospitalization for trans-rectal ultrasound guided prostate (TRUSP) biopsy. Materials and methodsFrom September 2009 to September 2012, 218 consecutive patients hospitalized for TRUSP biopsy in our hospital were enrolled. All were hospitalized for observation for one day after the procedure. Patients who were not discharged on the planned date or who were re-admitted were categorized as the “changed hospitalization plan” group. Perioperative laboratory data and variables were checked and recorded for statistical analysis to examine the differences between patients with and without changed hospitalization plan. The causes of changing hospitalization plans were recorded for descriptive analysis. ResultsThere were 202 (92.7%) patients discharged on the planned date and 16 (7.3%) for whom the hospitalization plan was changed. There were no statistical significances in laboratory tests between the groups; age was the only variable that was statistically significantly different (p = 0.032), especially in patients aged over 77 (p = 0.033).The most common causes of changing the hospitalization plan were urinary retention (n = 10, 4.6%) and fever (n = 6, 2.8%) which included sepsis (n = 3, 1.4%). Two of the three patients with sepsis were re-hospitalized. ConclusionAge over 77 was the only significant risk factor for changed hospitalization plan. However, Postoperative fever was uncommon in patients hospitalized for one day for TRUSP biopsy. Prolonged admission to prevent rare cases of sepsis may be not reasonable.

Peripheral zone volume ratio (PZ-ratio) is relevant with biopsy results and can increase the accuracy of current diagnostic modality.

The current diagnostic modality of prostate cancer based on prostate specific antigen (PSA) and systematic biopsy is far from ideal in terms of over-diagnosing indolent prostate cancer and missing significant ones. Thus we integrated the peripheral zone volume ratio (PZ-ratio) for diagnostic refinement. This retrospective study included 247 consecutive patients who underwent initial transrectal ultrasound-guided systematic prostate biopsy from April 2014 to November 2015. Prostate volume was determined by semi-automatic contour on axial T2 weighted magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). PZ-ratio was inversely correlated with age (r = −0.36, p <0.0001). Adding PZ-ratio and MRI findings to the current predictive model (age, PSA density, percent-free PSA) significantly increased diagnostic accuracy in all patients (AUC: 0.871 vs. 0.812, p = 0.0059), but not in patient subgroup with PSA 4–10 ng/ml (AUC: 0.863 vs. 0.803, p = 0.12). The new model also significantly reduced the number of unnecessary biopsies while missing less significant cancers at a probability threshold of 25%. PZ-ratio is a potential tool in predicting biopsy results, and when added alone or in combination with MRI findings, the diagnostic accuracy can be further enhanced.

Effect of heparin bridged transrectal prostate biopsy on the risk of hemorrhage in patients requiring temporary discontinuation of warfarin.

125 Background: Safety of heparin bridging therapy for transrectal ultrasound-guided prostate (TRUS) biopsy in patients requiring temporary discontinuation of antithrombotic therapy is unknown. This study aimed to assess the relationship between heparin bridging therapy and the incidence of complications after TRUS biopsy. Methods: From January 2005 to November 2015, we performed 1307 consecutive TRUS biopsies on 1134 patients in our hospital. The patients were assigned to two groups: those without heparin bridging (the control group) and those with temporary discontinuation of antithrombotic agents with heparin bridging therapy (the bridging group). A 10–12-core TRUS biopsy was performed; the patients were evaluated for bleeding-related complications. Results: Of 1134 patients, 1109 (1281 biopsies) and 25 (26 biopsies) were assigned to the control and bridging group, respectively. Patient background did not significantly differ between the control and bridging groups, except for age, history of diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and CHADS2 scores. Compared with the control group, the bridging group showed a significantly higher rate of complication for any complication (35% vs. 8.3%, P &lt; 0.001), bleeding-related complications (27% vs. 4.4%), and urinary tract infection (7.7% vs. 1.2%). No thromboembolic event was observed in the present study. Multivariate logistic analysis showed that heparin bridging therapy was a significant risk factor for the incidence of any complication and bleeding-related complications. Conclusions: Heparin bridging therapy with temporal discontinuation of antithrombotic agents may increase the risk of complications after TRUS biopsy. Further, large-scale studies are required to clarify the safety of heparin bridging therapy.

Complications after transrectal ultrasound-guided prostate biopsy

Background: Transrectal ultrasound-guided prostate (TRUS-P) biopsy is the standard diagnostic procedure for patients with suspected prostate cancer. However, infectious complications can occur. Purpose: To analyze the patients from a single institution who were hospitalized for infectious complications after TRUS-P biopsy. Materials and Methods: From 2003 to 2012, 985 TRUS-P biopsy procedures were performed in a medical center in Northern Taiwan; among these, 28 patients were admitted for infectious complications following the procedure. A retrospective review of the medical records was performed, and data regarding the demographics, details of infectious complications, and hospital course of these patients were collected. Results: The median age of the patients was 62 (27–82) years; the comorbidity rate was 57.1% (16/28); the admission rate was 2.8% (28/985). The most common causative pathogen was Escherichia coli. More than half of the cultured E. coli were not resistant to fluoroquinolones. The median hospital stay was 6 (3–16) days, and one patient was admitted to the intensive care unit. No mortality was observed in this study. Although the number of biopsies increased, no obvious increasing trend in the number of hospitalizations was noted in recent years. Conclusion: TRUS-P biopsy can be safely performed, and no obvious increasing trend in infectious complications and resistant strains has been observed in recent years.

Safety of heparin bridging therapy for transrectal ultrasound-guided prostate biopsy in patients requiring temporary discontinuation of antithrombotic agents.

BackgroundSafety of heparin bridging therapy for transrectal ultrasound-guided prostate (TRUS) biopsy in patients requiring temporary discontinuation of antithrombotic therapy is unknown. This study aimed to assess the relationship between heparin bridging therapy and the incidence of complications after TRUS biopsy.MethodsFrom January 2005 to November 2015, we performed 1307 consecutive TRUS biopsies on 1134 patients in our hospital. The patients were assigned to two groups: those without heparin bridging (the control group) and those with temporary discontinuation of antithrombotic agents with heparin bridging therapy (the bridging group). A 10–12-core TRUS biopsy was performed; the patients were evaluated for bleeding-related complications.ResultsOf 1134 patients, 1109 (1281 biopsies) and 25 (26 biopsies) were assigned to the control and bridging group, respectively. Patient background did not significantly differ between the control and bridging groups, except for age, history of diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and CHADS2 scores. Compared with the control group, the bridging group showed a significantly higher rate of complication for any complication (35 vs. 8.3%, P < 0.001), bleeding-related complications (27 vs. 4.4%), and urinary tract infection (7.7 vs. 1.2%). No thromboembolic event was observed in the present study. Multivariate logistic analysis showed that heparin bridging therapy was a significant risk factor for the incidence of any complication and bleeding-related complications.ConclusionsHeparin bridging therapy with temporal discontinuation of antithrombotic agents may increase the risk of complications after TRUS biopsy. Further, large-scale studies are required to clarify the safety of heparin bridging therapy.Electronic supplementary materialThe online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s40064-016-3610-6) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Ability of an epigenetic assay to identify anterior prostate tumors based on a negative 12-core biopsy.

131 Background: There is increasing awareness that anterior-predominant prostate cancers (PCa) are poorly sampled by 12-core transrectal ultrasound-guided (TRUS) prostate biopsies. Approximately one-fifth of all prostate tumors occur in this area, and many are high grade and extend beyond the prostatic capsule. An epigenetic assay, detecting PCa-specific DNA-methylation of GSTP1, RASSF1 and APC has shown to be a significant predictor for the presence of PCa in histopathologically cancer-negative biopsies through a cancer-associated field effect. It is currently unknown whether the field effect from an anterior-predominant cancer may be detected in standard posteriorly-directed sextant biopsy specimens. Methods: Seven patients with at least one prior negative TRUS biopsy were subsequently diagnosed with anterior-only PCa based on a transperineal mapping template prostate biopsy (MTPB). Three patients were diagnosed with low-grade Gleason score (GS) 6 tumors and four patients with GS ≥7 tumors. The outcome of the MTPB was compared with the result of the epigenetic test performed on the prior cancer-negative TRUS biopsy. Results: MTPB included a median of 68 cores (IQR 53-76). A total of 6 patients (86%) were methylation-positive at initial biopsy, suggesting that the field effect from these anterior-predominant cancers extends to the region of TRUS biopsy sampling. No methylation was found for one patient with only one GS6 positive core at MTPB and a tumor volume of 4%. Methylation intensities were higher for patients with GS ≥7 compared to those with GS6. A logistic regression model combining these intensities with traditional risk factors (PSA, age, TRUS-biopsy pathology and DRE) indicated higher risk scores for high-grade tumors. Conclusions: Aberrant DNA-methylation patterns are present in normal-appearing tissue from TRUS biopsy of patients with anteriorly located tumors. Although a small study, this is a unique cohort that underwent extensive sampling at re-biopsy demonstrating the presence of an anterior-predominant tumor. These results indicate that an epigenetic assay may be valuable even in patients with negative posteriorly-directed TRUS biopsies to detected anterior-predominant PCa.

Atypical diagnosis in prostate needle biopsies from a developing country (Philippines): The essential role of a urological pathologist.

PurposeBorderline prostatic lesions, with insufficient histomorphologic features, to be definitely diagnosed as prostatic adenocarcinoma (PCa) are often signed out as “atypical glands suspicious for carcinoma” or atypical small acinar proliferation (ASAP). These findings that eventually warrant either immunohistochemical (IHC) studies or a repeat biopsy, prove to be more burdensome to patients in developing countries (such as the Philippines), where health care is not as progressive nor is it an utmost priority. At the same time, in countries like the Philippines, there is a shortage of urological pathologists.MethodsIn this study, we compared the transrectal ultrasound-guided prostate (TRUS) biopsies signed out by general surgical pathologists in St. Luke's Medical Center Quezon City from 2008–2010, and the TRUS Biopsies primarily signed out by a urologic pathologist in both St. Luke's Medical Center Quezon City and Global City from July 2013 to July 2014, and from September 2013 to July 2014, respectively.ResultsFrom 2008 to 2010, 30.6% (129 of 421) of the cases were signed out as atypical. Of these, 79 underwent IHC staining, 21 (26.6%) of which were eventually signed out as PCa. Compared to those signed out in 2013 to 2014 by our genitourinary pathologist, only 16.6% (39 of 235) of the cases were signed out as atypical. Of these, 16 underwent IHC staining, with 15 (93%) of them being definitively diagnosed as PCa. Among the 21 cases wherein a repeat biopsy was recommended, only three followed and two of these had findings of PCa on repeat biopsy. Looking at our 16.6% rate of atypicals and subtracting those that were eventually established as PCa after IHCs, our atypicals would be down to 10% (24/235) in 2013–2014 compared to 25.7% (108/421) in 2008–2010.ConclusionsThese results highlight the critical role a specialist has in the field of urological pathology, especially in developing countries. It is in the diagnosis of PCa in needle biopsies that a urological pathologist impacts the use of an atypical diagnosis, by ensuring its judicious use. This ultimately benefits the patients, by lessening unwarranted expenses through the decreased dependence on IHC staining and if necessary, a repeat biopsy.

Transrectal ultrasound-guided prostate biopsy in Taiwan: A nationwide database study

BackgroundFor patients with an elevated prostate specific antigen (PSA) level or a suspected lesion detected by digital rectal examination, transrectal ultrasound-guided (TRUS) prostate biopsy is the standard procedure for prostate cancer diagnoses. In Taiwan, TRUS prostate biopsy has not been well-studied on a nationwide scale. This article aimed to study TRUS prostate biopsy in Taiwan and its related complications, according to the claims generated through the National Health Insurance (NHI) program. MethodsWe applied for access to claims from the NHI Research Database of Taiwan of all patients who visited the urology clinic during the period of 2006 to 2010. In the 5-year urology profile, we obtained all records, which included admission and ambulatory clinical records. The definition of TRUS biopsy included codes for ultrasound-guided procedure and for prostate puncture; other codes involving complications such as postbiopsy voiding difficulty, significant bleeding, or infection requiring treatment were also included. Risk factors included age, diagnosis of prostate cancer, hospitalization or nonhospitalization, and the Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI; with a value of 0, 1, 2 or ≥ 3). Descriptive and comparative analyses were also performed. ResultsIn the 5-year urology profile, 12,968 TRUS biopsies performed of which 6885 were in-patient procedures and 6083 were ambulatory clinic procedures. After the procedures, 1266 (9.76%) biopsies were associated with voiding difficulty; 148 (1.14%) biopsies, with significant bleeding; and 855 (6.59%) biopsies, with infection that required treatment. The prostate cancer diagnosis rate was 36.02%. The overall biopsy-related mortality rate within 30 days was 0.25%, and the postbiopsy sepsis-related mortality rate was 0.13%. Age, diagnosis of cancer, hospitalization, and CCI value ≥ 1 were all significant factors in univariate analysis and multivariate analysis for postbiopsy voiding difficulty and severe infection. A diagnosis of cancer and a CCI value ≥ 2 were significant factors for significant bleeding after biopsy. Patients diagnosed as having prostate cancer had fewer bleeding complications after biopsy. ConclusionThe most frequent complication was postbiopsy voiding difficulty, followed by infection that required treatment and significant bleeding. The sepsis-related mortality rate was 0.13%. Significant risk factors for postbiopsy complications included age, diagnosis of prostate cancer, hospitalization, and the CCI value.

Six-core versus twelve-core prostate biopsy: a retrospective study comparing accuracy, oncological outcomes and safety.

To compare sextant and 12 core transrectal ultrasound-guided (TRUS) prostate biopsies for detecting prostate cancer (PCa) and to determine whether 12-core prostate biopsies are associated with a higher incidence of insignificant prostate cancer and complications. A retrospective study was performed on all patients with a positive TRUS biopsy for prostate cancer between January 2011 and December 2013. Group A underwent a sextant core prostate biopsy and group B underwent a 12-core prostate biopsy. Outcome variables were cancer detection rates, oncological outcomes, incidence of clinically insignificant PCa and incidence of biopsy associated complications. Exclusion criteria included a negative TRUS biopsy and metastatic prostate cancer. In total 718 prostate biopsies were performed and 286 patients met inclusion criteria (143 patients in each group). The overall cancer detection rate was 43 % in group A compared to 53 % in group B (p = 0.03). In group A, 31 (21.7 %) patients proceeded to open retropubic radical prostatectomy (RRP) compared to 36 (25.2 %) in group B (p = 0.7). Sextant biopsies were associated with a significantly higher rate of upgrading compared to 12-core biopsies in RRP specimens (51.6 versus 25 % respectively, p < 0.01). The incidence of clinically insignificant PCa was 10.5 % in group A versus 14.7 % in group B (p = 0.2). The incidence of urosepsis post biopsy was 0.7 % in both groups (n = 1). Twelve-core biopsies were associated with higher PCa cancer detection rates, greater accuracy for Gleason grading and no differences for detecting clinically insignificant PCa or urosepsis compared to sextant biopsies.

Role of PSA density in diagnosis of prostate cancer in obese men

To compare the performance of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) density in the diagnosis of prostate cancer in obese and non-obese Chinese men. The results of transrectal ultrasound-guided (TRUS) prostate biopsies of Chinese men with PSA <20 ng/mL were reviewed. Parameters including age, body mass index (BMI), TRUS prostate volume, and TRUS biopsy results were recorded. The diagnostic yields of PSA density (>0.15 ng/mL as positive) in obese and non-obese men with PSA <20 ng/mL were compared. Obesity was defined as BMI ≥ 27 kg/m(2) according to WHO recommendation for Hong Kong Chinese. TRUS biopsy, BMI, and PSA density data were available for 854 men (mean age 65.9 ± 7.3). The mean PSA values for the obese and non-obese patients were 7.9 ± 3.7 and 8.2 ± 4.1 ng/mL, respectively (p = 0.416). TRUS volumes in obese and non-obese men were 63.2 ml and 51.6 ml, respectively (t test, p < 0.001), and PSA density was significantly lower in obese men (0.145 vs. 0.188, p < 0.001). For obese men, positive PSA density was associated with four times (41.1 vs. 9.5 %, p < 0.001) the risk of prostate cancer, compared to only twice the risk (18.8 vs. 9.7 %, p = 0.001) in non-obese men. The specificity and area under the curve of PSA density were 74.2 % and 0.731, respectively, for obese men, and 51.4 % and 0.653, respectively, for non-obese men. Among patients with a diagnosis of prostate cancer, the obese patient group had a significantly higher proportion of patients with Gleason 7-10 prostate cancer than the non-obese patient group (48.9 vs. 32.7 %, Chi-square test, p = 0.035), and a trend toward a higher proportion of bilateral lobe involvement. PSA density had better performance in obese men. Positive PSA density in obese men was associated with four times the risk of prostate cancer.

Increased association of the ERG oncoprotein expression in advanced stages of prostate cancer in Filipinos.

Filipinos with prostate cancer (CaP) are at increased risk of harboring advanced stages and lower survival rates compared to other Asians. This study aims to investigate prevalence of ETS-related gene (ERG) oncoprotein overexpression in Filipinos as surrogate of TMPRSS2-ERG gene fusions, using a highly specific monoclonal antibody (ERG-MAb), and conduct the first attempt to study the role of genetic alterations in the aggressive tumor biologic behaviour of CaP among Filipinos. This case-matched, case-control retrospective study evaluated ERG expression in Filipino patients diagnosed with CaP and its effect on stage and Gleason grade of their disease. Men who underwent radical prostatectomy for organ-confined disease at the University of the Philippines-Philippine General Hospital (UP-PGH) comprised the organ-confined cohort. Age-matched adults who had trans-rectal ultrasound-guided prostate (TRUSP) biopsy or trans-urethral resection of the prostate (TURP) with bilateral orchiectomy for T4 or stage IV CaP composed the advanced disease cohort. Overall ERG expression frequency of 23.08% (N = 104) was demonstrated, with a higher rate observed in the advanced disease cohort (32.69%) compared to the organ-confined group (13.46%). Furthermore, ERG overexpression was only detected among intermediate and high-risk tumors. A high-specificity (98.08%) of the ERG-MAb for malignant prostatic cells was likewise demonstrated. In contrast to higher ERG frequency in Western countries, it is much lower in Filipino CaP, which is similar to lower rates noted from other Asian countries. The 98.08% specificity of ERG oncoprotein for prostate tumor cells combined with its increased association in advanced disease, suggests for prognostic potential of ERG that may aid clinicians in treatment decisions for Filipino CaP patients.

The clinic-pathological characteristics of prostate cancer in an Irish subpopulation with a serum PSA less than 4.0ng/ml

Background: Prostate specific antigen (PSA) has been used as a biomarker for prostate cancer for the last 20 years. Traditionally, a serum PSA &lt;4 ng/ml has been used as a general cut-off between normal and abnormal readings. There is evidence to demonstrate that men with a normal serum PSA can develop prostate cancer. The aim of this study was to investigate the clinico-pathological features of prostate cancer in a non-screened Irish cohort with serum PSA &lt;4 ng/ml. Methods: A retrospective analysis was performed of all patients who underwent radical retropubic prostatectomy (RRP) in a tertiary referral unit over a 10-year period (2000–2010). Clinico-pathological characteristics were collated including those from trans-rectal ultrasound-guided (TRUS) prostate biopsies and radical prostatectomy specimens. Results: Between 2000 and 2010, 651 men underwent an RRP, with 43 (6.6%) having a serum PSA &lt;4 ng/ml. The median PSA was 3.2 ng/ml (range 0.8–4.0). Nineteen (44.2%) had palpable disease on direct rectal examination (DRE). Following prostatectomy, 28 (65.12%) had Gleason 6 disease, 14 (32.56%) had Gleason 7 disease and one (2.32%) had Gleason 8 disease. Five (11.63%) patients were upgraded from TRUS biopsy to final histopathology. Six (13.95%) patients had pathological evidence of extracapsular extension on final pathology. Three (6.98%) patients experienced biochemical recurrence and received salvage radiation therapy after a median time of 24 months. The median follow-up was 106 months (range 36–158). Twenty (46.51%) patients had a first-degree family history of prostate cancer. Conclusions: A PSA cut-off of 4 ng/ml has commonly been used in the detection of prostate cancer. Our study emphasizes that this cut-off is inappropriate and that no specific level of PSA can be used. Management decisions need to be individualized based on index of suspicion with concomitant counselling and rectal examination.

Value of real-time elastography guided transperineal prostate biopsies in improving prostate cancer detection rate

Objective To determine the utility of elastography guided biopsies in men undergoing transrectal ultrasound-guided transperineal prostate biopsies.Methods A total of 108 consecutive patients suspicious for prostate cancer due to elevated serum prostate specific antigen level or abnormal digital rectal examination were enrolled in this prospective study.All patients underwent combined elastography-targeted and 10 core-systematic transperineal biopsy.The impact of elastography-targeted biopsies on the prostate cancer detection rate was analyzed in comparison with prostate biopsy pathology.Results The overall prostate cancer detection rate was 49.1％ (53/108).The prostate cancer detection rate of systematic biopsy was 35.2％(38/108).The increase in cancer detection rate by elastography-targeted biopsies was 13.9％(15/108,P =0.039).A total of 1296 cores were sampled among 108 patients,including 1080 systematic biopsy cores and 216 targeted biopsy cores.The positive rate of targeted biopsy was significantly higher than systematic biopsy (50.9％ vs 14.1％,P ＜0.0001).Conclusions Prostate cancer detection rate could be significantly improved by elastography targeted transperineal biopsy. Key words: Ultrasonography; Prostatic neoplasms; Biopsy, needle; Elastography