3. Terminology
3.1 Prostate
Accessory male reproductive gland; produces a third of seminal volume including fluids that activate sperm.
3.2 Seminal vesicles
Coiled glands that secrete a significant proportion of fluid that ultimately becomes semen.
3.3 Transrectal ultrasound
An ultrasound technique whereby an ultrasound probe is inserted into the rectum.
3.4 Digital rectal examination
Examination of the anus, lower rectum and prostate with the index finger.
3.5 Prostate-specific antigen
PSA is a glycopeptide that is produced exclusively in the prostate gland and secreted in the ejaculate, where its concentration is 106 times greater than in serum.
3.6 Prostate biopsy
A procedure whereby prostatic tissue is obtained for histological evaluation. Usually guided by TRUS.
3.7 Gleason score
Summation of the most prevalent and the worst Gleason grade, or if only one grade present its doubling, determining the aggressiveness of the prostate cancer.
3.8 ISUP 2014 Grade
Simplified five-grade group system based on the Gleason score that gives more understandable grade stratification. [12]
3.9 Specialist nurse
A nurse working in a specialist area, often at an advanced level with advanced practice qualifications.