What is the procedure performed to assist in diagnosing cancer of the prostate?

The diagnosis of prostate cancer can be confirmed only by a biopsy. During a biopsy, a urologist (a Doctor Who specializes in diseases of urinary and sex organs in men, and urinary organs in women) removes tissue samples, usually with a needle. This is generally done in the doctor's office with local anesthesia. Then a pathologist (a doctor who identifies diseases by studying tissues under a microscope) checks for cancer cells.
A blood test called a PSA (prostate-specific Antigen) is used to measure the level of PSA in the blood.

An elevated PSA level can indicate either an enlarged prostate or prostate cancer. If PSA levels are high, a biopsy of the prostate can be done to confirm the presence of prostate cancer.