Understanding Your Diagnosis
A prostate cancer diagnosis brings a flood of unfamiliar terms. These guides were written by a nurse to help you and your caregivers understand what your results mean — in plain language, with compassion.
You are not alone. These pages are here to help you ask better questions, understand your care team's recommendations, and feel more confident navigating this journey. They are educational resources — always discuss your specific results with your healthcare provider.
Choose a Topic
Each guide covers one aspect of your diagnosis. Start anywhere — there is no required order.
What Is Prostate Cancer?
An introduction to prostate cancer — what it is, how it develops, and why early understanding matters.
Understanding PSA
Learn what PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) is, what your numbers mean, and how it guides your care.
Understanding Your Biopsy Report
A plain-language guide to reading your prostate biopsy pathology report.
Understanding Gleason Score
What the Gleason grading system means and how it describes the aggressiveness of your cancer.
Understanding Grade Groups
How Grade Groups (1–5) simplify Gleason scoring and what each group means for your prognosis.
Stage vs. Grade Group
Understanding the difference between cancer stage (how far it has spread) and grade group (how aggressive it looks).
Understanding Your Decipher Score
What the Decipher genomic test measures and how it helps predict cancer behavior after diagnosis.
Understanding Cribriform Pattern
What cribriform pattern means in your biopsy and why it matters for treatment planning.
Understanding Perineural Invasion
What perineural invasion (PNI) means when found in your biopsy and its significance for your care.
Understanding Positive Biopsy Cores
How to interpret the number of positive cores in your biopsy report and what it tells your care team.
Understanding Percent Involvement
What percent involvement means in your biopsy results and how it factors into your overall picture.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Medical Disclaimer: The information on these pages is intended for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult your urologist, oncologist, or healthcare team regarding your individual diagnosis and treatment options.
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