Staging prostate cancer is a sometimes-complex process that involves multiple tests, measurements and other factors. The aim is to determine the size, extent and aggressiveness of the cancer. Show
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Types of stagingThere are two types of staging for prostate cancer.
Understanding prostate cancer’s progressionTo determine the appropriate treatment, doctors need to know how far the cancer has progressed, or its stage. A pathologist, the doctor trained in analyzing cells taken during a prostate biopsy, will provide two starting points—the cancer’s grade and Gleason score.
After a biopsy confirms prostate cancer, the patient may undergo additional tests to see whether it has spread through the blood or lymph nodes to other parts of the body. These tests are usually imaging studies and may include a bone scan, positron emission tomography (PET) scan or computed tomography (CT) scan. Your multidisciplinary team will work with you to develop a personalized plan to treat your prostate cancer in a way that fits your individual needs and goals.
Stages of prostate cancerDoctors use the results of all these tests to help determine the stage of the prostate cancer, or how far it has progressed. Widely used staging criteria is based on the TNM system developed by the American Joint Committee on Cancer. TNM staging systemThe three key components of the TNM system, include:
The stage of cancer will help doctor and patient determine the most appropriate options for treatment. Prostate cancer stages range from 1 through 4.
Learn more about metastatic stage 4 prostate cancer Prostate cancer survival rateIf the prostate cancer hasn’t spread to distant parts of the body (stages 1 to 4A), the five-year survival rate is almost 100 percent, according to the American Cancer Society. The survival rate for stage 4B is about 30 percent. Questions to ask your doctorTo help understand the progression of prostate cancer, discuss these questions with your doctors:
How long can a man live with stage 4 prostate cancer?When prostate cancer reaches stage 4 and has spread (metastasized) to other organs such as the lungs, liver, or bones, the five-year survival rate falls below 30%. At stage 4, prostate cancer is unlikely to be cured, although with effective therapy, many people can live for several years.
Is stage 4 prostate cancer always terminal?Treatments may slow or shrink an advanced prostate cancer, but for most men, stage 4 prostate cancer isn't curable. Still, treatments can extend your life and reduce the signs and symptoms of cancer.
How long can you live with prostate cancer that has spread?For men with distant spread (metastasis) of prostate cancer, about one-third will survive for five years after diagnosis.
What are the final symptoms of stage 4 prostate cancer?There are several symptoms that men with advanced prostate cancer might get. These include fatigue, pain and urinary problems. Whether you are at home, in a hospice or in hospital, you should have help to manage any symptoms you are experiencing.
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