[What is prostate cancer?].

Abstract

Prostate cancer can be diagnosed by individual screening (digital examination and PSA assay at age > 50 y) when still localized and asymptomatic. The diagnosis is confirmed by staged biopsies and by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with targeted biopsies. A better knowledge of the natural history of prostate cancer, together with improvements in MRI, can help to predict the location, volume, local extension and prognosis prior to treatment. This is particularly important for focal or partial treatment, aimed at removing the cancer without creating functional urinary or sexual disorders.