What Does a Urologist Do for Prostate Cancer

Before delving into the question of what a urologist does for prostate cancer, it can be helpful to understand exactly what a urologist is. A urologist is a physician who specializes in conditions affecting the urinary tract (which includes the kidneys, ureters, bladder and urethra) as well as conditions affecting the male reproductive system (which includes the prostate gland, scrotum, testicles and penis). In addition to treating prostate cancer, a urologist may treat conditions such as kidney stones, urinary tract infections (UTIs) and male infertility.

With regard to prostate cancer, many patients receive their diagnosis from a urologist. If a urologist suspects prostate cancer after performing a physical examination and a digital rectal examination (DRE) and/or a prostate-specific antigen test (PSA), he or she will likely perform a prostate biopsy and order additional imaging tests.

If prostate cancer is present, the urologist will generally assign a Gleason score, which indicates how likely the cancer is to metastasize, or spread. In cases where surgery is necessary to remove cancerous tissue, the urologist may perform a procedure such as a laparoscopic radical prostatectomy. Other aspects of prostate cancer treatment are handled by specialists in other fields, such as oncology and radiology.

Moffitt Cancer Center’s Urologic Oncology Program

Men who are experiencing prostate cancer symptoms can feel confident turning to Moffitt Cancer Center for a diagnosis and treatment. In addition to urologists, uropathologists and uroradiologists, our team of skilled prostate cancer doctors includes radiation oncologists, interventional radiologists and medical oncologists. Requesting an appointment is easy—simply call us at 1-888-663-3488 or complete our new patient registration form online.