Non-invasive MRI scan for Prostate Cancer recommended by NICE

An image of a prostate gland from a non-invasive mpMRI scan.
  • Medical
  • by opusdiagnostics
  • December 12, 2018

    NICE Recommends MRI Scans as First-Line Investigation for Prostate Cancer

    NICE now advises using non-invasive MRI scans as the first step in investigating suspected clinically localised prostate cancer. Multi-parametric magnetic resonance imaging (mpMRI) plays a key role in this approach. It creates highly detailed prostate images, allowing clinicians to detect prostate cancer more accurately.

    Currently, men with suspected prostate cancer typically undergo a blood test to check for elevated prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels. Those with raised PSA levels may receive a biopsy, which involves inserting a needle into the prostate to collect tissue samples. While this procedure can detect cancer, it carries risks, including infection, and may be unnecessary for individuals with low-risk cancer.

    mpMRI Scanning Offers an Effective Non-Invasive Alternative

    Under new draft guidelines, NICE recommends mpMRI scans as an initial investigation for suspected clinically localised prostate cancer. This scan will complement rather than replace current tests like the PSA test. However, NICE advises against routinely offering this scan to patients who will not undergo radical treatment.

    For patients with clinically significant prostate cancer, the scan helps clinicians pinpoint the cancer’s exact location. This allows them to target the biopsy more effectively, reducing the need for multiple biopsy procedures and shortening the time needed to confirm the diagnosis.

    Multiparametric MRI not only boosts the accuracy of cancer detection but also proves to be cost-effective. By lowering the number of unnecessary biopsies, this approach helps detect cancers earlier and minimise the need for additional treatments.

    Between April 2015 and March 2016, mpMRI scans were used for 21,730 patients newly diagnosed with prostate cancer in England. During the past year, 15,243 Transperineal Template Biopsies and 35,267 Transrectal Ultrasound Guided Biopsies were carried out.

    Paul Chrisp, Director for the Centre for Guidelines, expressed optimism about this advancement. “We are pleased to announce that we will be recommending multiparametric MRI for patients with prostate cancer,” he said. “This diagnostic method aims to improve survival, reduce unnecessary biopsies, and benefit both patients and the NHS in the long term.”

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