[Clinical staging and management of prostate cancer]

Through the use of digital rectal examination, prostate-specific antigen and improved biopsy technique, it is possible to diagnose early stage prostate cancer. The management of this disease, however, has generated considerable controversy. The decision whether to treat actively or conservatively must be made on the basis of accurate staging and grading technique, a patient's life expectancy and performance status. This article will show the current staging and management of prostate cancer as practiced in Japan.