Read about the tests and checks used to see if you have prostate cancer or another prostate problem. They include the PSA test, digital rectal examination (DRE), prostate biopsy and scans. We also explain what your results might mean.

Medical Appointment Test Doctor Adobestock 257047144

Introduction to prostate tests

Why you might have tests, and what to expect at your GP surgery and at the hospital.
Learn more
Medical Learning Prostate Appointment Adobestock 208835237

The PSA blood test

Learn how the prostate specific antigen (PSA) test can help to diagnose prostate problems, the pros and cons of the test, what the results mean, and what might happen afterwards.
Learn more
Medical Appointment Istock 000019016619Xxlarge

Digital rectal examination (DRE)

Your doctor or nurse feels the prostate through the wall of the back passage to check for signs of cancer and to see if it is enlarged.
Learn more
mpMRI before biopsy

MRI scan

Learn how MRI scans can help to diagnose prostate cancer, the advantages and disadvantages of the scan, and what the results mean.
Learn more
Research Microscope Science Istock 000015828153

Prostate biopsy

This involves taking small pieces of prostate tissue to be looked at under a microscope to check for cancer cells.
Learn more
MRI Hospital Appointment Test Istock 502584829

Scans to see if your cancer has spread

MRI, CT, bone and PET scans can show whether the cancer has spread outside the prostate and where it has spread to. You might hear this called your TNM stage.
Learn more