Will A Prostate Biopsy Let The Prostate Cancer Spread Elsewhere?

March 16, 2009 -- Question: Will a prostate biopsy let the prostate cancer spread elsewhere?

Answer: Many men are concerned that sticking a needle into the prostate or series of needles into the prostate, which is really what a prostate biopsy is, will actually cause the spread of the cancer. We have no evidence that this is true.

Related Stories

Man kills wife, 3 kids in mass shooting: Police

• Apr 23, 12:35 PM

Trump, NY AG resolve dispute over $175M bond

• Apr 22, 12:14 PM

OJ Simpson dies at 76

• Apr 11, 6:32 PM

Indeed we have evidence that prostate biopsies are beneficial in diagnosing a prostate cancer. But other than the pain of the needle or slight risk of infection after the needle has gone into the prostate, we have no evidence that prostate biopsies are harmful.