Can the Prostate Be Checked With a Colonscopy?
A colonoscopy is a medical testing procedure designed to detect dangerous changes in the colon or rectum. It is not used to check for changes in the nearby prostate gland.
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Colonoscopy
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According to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse, your doctor performs a colonoscopy by inserting a flexible, lighted tube (colonoscope) through the anus and into the rectum and colon. A tiny camera attached to the end of the colonoscope sends live images to an external viewing monitor.
Digital Rectal Exam
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During a prostate exam, your doctor may perform a digital rectal exam, which involves using a gloved finger inserted in the rectum to physically detect changes in the prostate, which sits outside the rectum wall.
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Transrectal Ultrasound
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Your doctor may also perform a transrectal ultrasound, which involves using a cigar-shaped probe inserted into the rectum to bounce sound waves off the prostate and create a detailed image of the gland, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Similarities and Differences
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Although these prostate exam techniques require access through the rectum, they differ from colonoscopies, which have an unrelated diagnostic purpose.
Additional Prostate Tests
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Additional tests performed to check prostate health include prostate biopsy (tissue sampling) and a PSA test, which measures the presence of an immune system marker linked to increased prostate cancer risks.
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