The biopsy confirmed prostate cancer. What happens next?
First steps after your biopsy result
If you have been diagnosed with prostate cancer after a biopsy, you may be wondering how soon you need to make a decision. At your next appointment, the urologist can explain the result, tell you whether you need further tests and discuss your options. If you would like another specialist to review the diagnosis or proposed treatment, VienaMed can help you prepare your records for a second medical opinion in Vienna. VienaMed services
What the Gleason score and ISUP Grade Group mean
The pathology report describes what the pathologist found in the tissue samples. The Gleason score reflects how the cancer cells are arranged in the tissue. The ISUP Grade Group, on a scale of 1 to 5, summarises the information in the Gleason score.
When the Gleason score is 7, the order of the numbers matters. 3 + 4 corresponds to Grade Group 2, while 4 + 3 corresponds to Grade Group 3. The first number indicates the pattern that predominates in the sample.
What your urologist assesses after the biopsy
The grade describes how the tumour looks under a microscope and helps indicate how aggressive it may be. The stage describes how far the cancer has spread. Your urologist interprets the biopsy alongside your blood PSA level, clinical examination and available test results. These findings help determine whether you need any further tests to establish the stage.
For localised prostate cancer, your doctor may discuss active surveillance, surgery or radiotherapy. The options depend on the risk of progression, your general health and your preferences. Active surveillance is an option for some patients and involves scheduled check-ups and tests. Your doctor reviews the options if results show the cancer has progressed.
Questions to bring to your next appointment
- What do my Gleason score and ISUP Grade Group mean?
- What do we know about how far the cancer has spread? How would another test affect the plan?
- Which options suit my situation, and why do you recommend them?
- How might each option affect bladder control, sexual function or bowel habits?
- How soon should I make a decision? When should I come back for a follow-up?
You can bring someone you trust to help you take notes. If your doctor proposes a treatment, ask what it would involve for you, from scheduling through recovery.
How VienaMed helps you request a second opinion
If you want to understand the diagnosis better or have received different recommendations, you can start the process from Romania. VienaMed helps you prepare your records, send them to specialists in Vienna and arrange an appointment. After reviewing the records, the specialist may recommend an online or in-person consultation. VienaMed patient guide
For your first conversation with VienaMed, gather the documents you already have.
- The complete biopsy pathology report, including any attachments.
- Your PSA results and the dates of the tests.
- Imaging reports, such as a prostate MRI report, and the images if you have them.
- Medical letters, any treatment recommendation you have received and a list of your current medications.
Tell the team what you would like to clarify. You might want to discuss the biopsy result, your treatment options or how much time your doctor advises you to take before making a decision.
Would you like to discuss your biopsy result with a specialist in Vienna?
VienaMed helps you request a second medical opinion in Vienna.