Prostate Cancer Care in Columbia, SC
If there is an abnormal growth of cells within the prostate, it is certainly possible that this could be a case of prostate cancer.
The prostate is an organ that solely exists in males, as it is a vital part of the semen production process. The board-certified oncologists at South Carolina Oncology Associates have extensive experience providing prostate cancer care to patients throughout South Carolina. Our cancer care center offers comprehensive diagnostics and treatment all under one roof. Take your first step towards cancer treatment by calling (803) 461-3000 today.
What Are the Symptoms of Prostate Cancer?
Due to the location of the prostate and its proximity to the urinary system, many signs of prostate cancer will relate to urinary function or the general pelvic region. Such symptoms often include:
- Difficulty urinating
- Weakened urine stream
- Pain within the pelvis or low back
- Blood in urine and/or semen
- Difficulty in getting or maintaining an erection (erectile dysfunction)
- Loss of control of the bladder or bowels
- Increased frequency of urination
The list of symptoms above may describe a variety of urology conditions, including benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). It is important that you seek treatment if you notice any of these warning signs, as it is always best to catch a condition in its earliest stages, especially if that condition does in fact turn out to be cancer.
Different Types of Prostate Cancer
There are multiple unique forms of prostate cancer that men are at risk of developing. This risk is influenced by a variety of factors such as older age, family history, race, and obesity.
Depending upon where in the prostate the abnormal cells develop, a man may have one of five different types of prostate cancer. Most often, this particular form of cancer is classified as an adenocarcinomas. Other types consist of:
Transitional Cell Carcinomas
Accounts for less than 5% of prostate cancer cases.
Small Cell Carcinomas
Accounts for less than 1% of prostate cancer cases.
Sarcomas
Accounts for less than 1% of prostate cancer cases.
Neuroendocrine Tumors
Accounts for less than 2% of prostate cancer cases.
Prostate Cancer Diagnosis
Regardless of what form of prostate cancer has affected an individual, each will require diagnostic imaging and maybe also a biopsy to confirm a definitive diagnosis.
In some cases, it may be advised for the patient to have their tumor removed from the prostate regardless of whether or not it has been identified as cancerous. The primary reason for this being that large growths on or within the prostate can cause a wide range of troublesome symptoms until the tumor is removed.
Prostate Cancer Treatment in Columbia
Due to the unique nature of each individual case, treatment for a patient’s prostate cancer will vary widely from one to another. If you wish to discuss which option would be best for you with an experienced urologist, please call (803) 461-3000 to schedule an appointment with your oncologist today.
During your initial consultation, your oncologist will walk through your medical history and journey with prostate cancer up to this point. Once they have insight into your specific case, they will be able to recommend a course of treatment to best suit your needs.
