Abbreviated Glossary

Active Surveillance:

Active surveillance is focused on carefully monitoring an individual for signs of prostate cancer progression, without additional treatment.

Androgen Deprivation Therapy (ADT):

Administration of hormones to lower testosterone levels thus inhibiting the growth of cancer cells over time.

Biopsy (Prostate):

A procedure where small hollow needle cores are inserted into the prostate to extract tissue for microscopic analysis.

Brachytherapy (HDR – High Dose Rate):

A temporary type of brachytherapy that involves placing highly radioactive sources in the prostate and delivering a high dose of radiation within a few minutes. After a few minutes, the radioactive sources are removed.

Brachytherapy (LDR –  Low Dose Rate):

A form of cancer treatment where low-level radioactive seeds are permanently implanted into the treatment site to destroy malignant tissue.

DRE:

Digital rectal exam – performed by a physician who inserts a gloved, lubricated finger into the rectum.

Gleason Score:

The grading system used to determine the aggressiveness of prostate cancer.

Impotence:

Also known as erectile dysfunction. The inability to get and keep and erection.

Incontinence:

The loss of bladder control or being unable to control urination.

PSA:

Prostate-specific antigen. A protein produced by cells of the prostate gland. The PSA test (a simple blood draw) measures the level of PSA in a man’s blood and elevated PSA levels often indicate the presence of prostate cancer.

SEER:

Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results database

SEER Cancer Stages:

• Localized: The cancer is confined to the prostate. There is no sign that the cancer has spread outside the prostate.
• Regional: The cancer has spread outside of the prostate to nearby tissues and organs.
• Distant: The cancer has spread to other parts of the body further away from the prostate, such as the lungs, liver, or bones.

Watchful Waiting:

A patient’s condition is closely watched but no treatment is given unless symptoms appear or change.