[Detection of cancer of the prostate. A study of 600 cases]

A free screening consultation for carcinoma of the prostate was proposed to men over the age of 50 years working in different companies in the areas of Paris. This consultation included a digital rectal examination, a blood test for determination of serum acid phosphatase and prostatic specific antigen, and two dimensional trans-rectal ultrasonography of the prostate. 600 patients were seen. 575 were evaluable. Prostate biopsy was recommended in 152 men. Ninety-three prostate biopsies were performed. Eighteen prostatic cancers and 1 urothelial cancer invading the prostate were detected with an overall incidence of prostate cancer of 3.1%. Radical prostatectomies were performed in 10 of the 18 patients with a prostate cancer. Sensitivity of digital rectal examination ultrasonography and PSA were respectively 42.8%, 47.3% and 68.4% with an abnormal serum PSA level defined as being greater than 5 ng/ml. The predictive value of a positive ultrasonography (18.7%) contrasts with the predictive value of a positive digital rectal examination (30.7%) and serum PSA (30%). Digital rectal examination and determination of serum prostatic specific antigen seem to be the most useful tests for mass screening of prostate cancer. Transrectal ultrasonography is very useful for guided prostatic biopsy and for a better topographic evaluation of the tumor.