Transrectal biopsy is a

biopsy A biopsy is a medical test commonly performed by a surgeon, interventional radiologist, or an interventional cardiologist. The process involves extraction of sample cells or tissues for examination to determine the presence or extent of a dise ...

procedure in which a sample of tissue is removed from the

prostate The prostate is both an accessory gland of the male reproductive system and a muscle-driven mechanical switch between urination and ejaculation. It is found only in some mammals. It differs between species anatomically, chemically, and phys ...

using a thin needle that is inserted through the rectum and into the prostate. Transrectal ultrasound ( TRUS) is usually used to guide the needle. The sample is examined under a

microscope A microscope () is a laboratory instrument used to examine objects that are too small to be seen by the naked eye. Microscopy is the science of investigating small objects and structures using a microscope. Microscopic means being invisi ...

to see if it contains

cancer Cancer is a group of diseases involving abnormal cell growth with the potential to invade or spread to other parts of the body. These contrast with benign tumors, which do not spread. Possible signs and symptoms include a lump, abnormal b ...

References

Transrectal biopsy
entry in the public domain NCI Dictionary of Cancer Terms Biopsy Male genital surgery {{Oncology-stub