Different Types of Prostate Cancer
The different types of prostate cancer affect the male prostate gland which surrounds the urethra and is responsible for producing seminal fluid that supports and aids in transporting sperm. If the DNA in the cells is damaged, cancer can form. Most of the different types of prostate cancer have a very good prognosis. In general, these cancers grow rather slowly, and may need no or little treatment. Some men with the disease survive until they die from other causes. Even if the cancer spreads, there is a good chance that treatment will help prolong the life of the patient. This is not to say, however, that prostate cancer cannot be fatal. Of the different types of prostate cancer, adenocarcinomas are predominant. They start growing in the glandular tissues. Neuroendocrine cancer, or small cell anaplastic cancer, however, is rare. While it spreads quicker than adenocarcinoma, it does not always produce prostate-specific antigen (PSA)—therefore, it may be diagnosed at a later stage. The different types of prostate cancer are among the most common cancers that affect men. Therefore, men are urged undergo the necessary
cancer screenings, including the prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test (which is the subject of debate) or a digital rectal exam (DRE). Prostate cancer symptoms may possibly include urinary problems (due to the pressure caused by a tumor), as well as the presence of blood or semen in the urine. If the cancer has reached the lymph nodes in the pelvis, an individual may experience leg swelling and pain in the pelvic area. If it has reached the bones, spine pressure, as well as bone pain and fracture, may be experienced. However, oftentimes men with different types of prostate cancer do not know that they are carrying the disease—even in its advanced stages.
