The symptom overlap from an enlarged prostate and prostate cancer are nearly identical as far as urine-related symptoms.
Prostate cancer can masquerade as a benign enlarged prostate if the malignancy is still localized rather than spread.
“First of all, the majority of patients who are diagnosed with prostate cancer have absolutely no symptoms,” says Michael D. Lutz, MD, board certified urologist with Corewell Health/Beaumont Hospital; President, MIU Men’s Health Foundation.
“The typical prostate cancer is diagnosed by the judicious use of the serum prostatic specific antigen blood test,” continues Dr. Lutz.
“Based upon this blood test result and a digital rectal examination, additional tests to confirm the diagnosis would be considered.”
Early Stage Prostate Cancer Can Cause Symptoms
“Occasionally men with localized prostate cancer might experience some irritative or obstructive voiding symptoms which would include frequency, urgency, weak stream or night time frequency.”
Enlarged Prostate Symptoms Overlap Prostate Cancer
Dr. Lutz explains, “It is the urinary symptoms which overlap with benign prostatic hyperplasia caused by the benign enlargement of the prostate as it causes a gradual progressive obstruction of the bladder outlet.”
When Prostate Cancer Symptoms Are Not Related to Voiding
Prostate cancer. Creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Wikimedia Commons
“Only when prostate cancer metastasizes to the bones and other organs do secondary and systemic symptoms of bone pain, weight loss and fatigue develop.
“It is important to remember that the majority of men diagnosed with prostate cancer will die with it…not from it.
“Yet early detection and appropriate management will help to achieve the best outcome and quality of life for each individual.”
“If you are a man of African descent or have a family history of prostate cancer, you should discuss with your physician about the option of screening starting at age 40,” explains Dr. Lutz.
Be Proactive!
If you have no family history and are under 40, and are experiencing any of the aforementioned symptoms, a visit to a urologist would be a very smart move.
Do not delay.
At least this way, if you’re cleared of prostate cancer, you can at least have peace of mind knowing that your annoying urinary symptoms are only that – annoying – and do to a benign enlargement.
Dr. Lutz is experienced in all areas of adult urology and has special interests in urological cancer, male fertility and urologic stone disease. Men’s Health Foundation
Lorra Garrick has been covering medical, fitness and cybersecurity topics for many years, having written thousands of articles for print magazines and websites, including as a ghostwriter. She’s also a former ACE-certified personal trainer.
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