What is the next step if the PSA and DRE indicate an abnormality?
If either the PSA or DRE show a possibility of cancer, the next step is to do a biopsy of the prostate, which is usually performed by an urologist. This is an outpatient procedure that is usually well tolerated. It involves inserting a needle through the rectum into the prostate with the aid of an ultrasound device for better visualization and accuracy. The needle removes tissue that is examined under a microscope to make the diagnosis.