Doctors use the following exams and tests to detect prostate cancer:

Digital Rectal Exam or DRE. The doctor inserts a gloved, lubricated finger into the rectum and feels the prostate through the rectal wall to check for hard or lumpy areas.

Blood Tests. Measures the levels of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) and prostatic acid phosphatase (PAP) in the blood. The doctor cannot diagnose prostate cancer with these tests alone because elevated PSA or PAP levels also may indicate other non-cancerous problems. The results of these tests may indicate further investigation is necessary.

Urine Test. Checks the urine for blood or infections.

Rectal Ultrasound Imaging or Transrectal Ultrasonography (TRUS). A probe inserted into the rectum sends out sound waves. The waves bounce off the prostate, and a computer uses the echoes to create a picture called a sonogram.

Biopsy. If the results of the tests above suggest cancer may be present, the doctor will perform a biopsy -- the only accurate way to diagnose prostate cancer. During this procedure, the doctor removes a small amount of prostate tissue, usually with a needle. A pathologist examines the specimen under a microscope to check for cancer cells.