Prostate BiopsyTest Overview
A
prostate gland biopsy is a test to remove small
samples of prostate tissue to be examined under a microscope. See a picture of
the prostate gland  . For a prostate biopsy, a
thin needle is inserted through the
rectum (transrectal biopsy), through the
urethra, or through the area between the anus and
scrotum (perineum). A transrectal biopsy is the most common
method used. The tissue samples taken during the biopsy are examined for
cancer cells. A biopsy may be done when a
blood test shows a high level of
prostate-specific antigen (PSA) or after a
digital rectal examination finds an abnormal prostate
or a lump.
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