UAE: Man with ‘undetectable’ cancer finally treated after new technique finds malignant tissue
Five previous biopsies failed to detect cancer before innovative scan localised condition
Abu Dhabi: A patient with ‘undetectable’ prostate cancer has been successfully diagnosed and treated at the Tawam Hospital in Al Ain.
The 56-year-old patient had elevated prostate specific antigen (PSA) but several hospitals were unable to identify the reason for it even after five different biopsies were conducted. None of the biopsies indicated cancer, and the patient eventually visited Tawam Hospital, part of the Abu Dhabi Health Service Company’s (Seha) network.
New technique
The doctors there used a new diagnostic measure called a multiparametric MRI scan (mpMRI), which is now used routinely at Tawam before performing biopsies on the prostate. In this instance, the specialised scan allowed doctors to localise and visualise the cancerous tissue.
The technique then facilitated a biopsy, known as an MRI/Ultrasound fusion guided biopsy. The technique combines a specialised magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan with an ultrasound image to help urologists precisely target the area of the prostate that needs to be biopsied.
Due to this advanced technique, doctors were able to confirm the presence of cancer, and the patient has since been treated successfully.
Six biopsies
“The patient had endured quite a lot. Having a total of six biopsies conducted is no easy feat for anyone. We’re pleased to have finally detected this cancer an early stage. The cancer was confirmed and treated very successfully. We expect him to have a very good possibility of complete cure, and to be able to live a normal life without any restriction to life or activities,” said Dr Aftab Ahmed Bhati, Consultant urologist at Tawam.
The patient said: “The time before my diagnosis was extremely difficult. It was frustrating, not having any answers and the uncertainty surrounding my health was mentally and physically taxing. I was about to give up following my fifth biopsy but luckily, I came to Tawam Hospital. Dr Aftab and the team conducted a different type of scan to make an accurate diagnosis.”
He added: “Following my diagnosis and treatment, I feel as though a weight has been lifted off my shoulders. I cannot thank the team enough and will continue to come in for my regular check-ups and screening. I strongly encourage all men to visit their doctors; please do not wait and get checked.”
Warning symptoms
High PSA levels could be a sign of prostate cancer, or a range of conditions like prostatitis or an enlarged prostate. There are a number of symptoms to look out for, including pain or a burning sensation when urinating, frequent urination, trouble starting or stopping urination, sudden erectile dysfunction, and blood in urine or semen. Doctors at Seha urge residents to visit a doctor if they experience any of them.