- Find
- Resources
What Happens During A Prostate Exam?
DRE
Normal Values
A normal finding means the doctor did not detect any problem during the exam. However, this test does not completely rule out all possible problems.
What abnormal results mean
An abnormal result may be due to:
- A prostate problem, including prostate enlargement or prostate cancer
- Bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract
- Tumor of the rectum
- Other problems within the rectum
Read more
More information on "What Happens During A Prostate Exam?"
From Our Experts
BPH: Enlarged Prostate
Benign prostatic hyperplasia, or BPH, is a common phenomenon among older men. It basically is the non-cancerous enlargement of the... Read more »
Is It Possible to Perform a Prostate Self Exam?
Dear Dr. Motola, Is is possible to perform a self exam of the prostate and if so, how can it be done? It is possible to perform a... Read more »
Your Doctor Visit: What Happens After the Exam?
Next up is a discussion concerning the importance of cholesterol management and an explanation of potential risks related to high... Read more »
The Neurological Exam: What do they do and what are they looking for?
So what does happen when you go to see a neurologist and they do an exam? I do think the procedure differs from doctor to doctor and... Read more »
Prostate Issues: 10 Things to Do Next
You've established that you have a prostate issue, but what else can you do for your overall health? The initial doctors' visits,... Read more »
From Our Sources
Experts: Annual Pap exams not necessary
New guidelines from the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) state that women in the United States should not begin having Pap... Read more »
Treating Prostate Cancer: A Guide for Men With Localized Prost...
Source: Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality
Treating Prostate Cancer A Guide for Men With Localized Prostate Cancer Most men have time to learn about all the options for treating their prostate... Read more »
PSA Testing and Screening for Prostate Cancer: When to Start
At What Age Should I Start Getting PSA Tests?The age at which one should first have a prostate cancer screening has been debated. The... Read more »
Digital Rectal Exam
Source: Harvard Decision Guide
What Is It? The digital rectal exam is a physical examination of the rectum, the last few inches of the bowel, just above the anus. The doctor uses a... Read more »
Digital rectal exam
Source: ADAM Encyclopedia
A digital rectal exam is an examination of the lower rectum. The doctor uses a gloved, lubricated finger to check for abnormalities.Alternative... Read more »
Featuring Content From:
By using this service, you accept our Terms of Use. Please read them. The consumer health information on is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment for any medical conditions. You should promptly seek professional medical care if you have any concern about your health, and you should always consult your physician before starting a fitness regimen. Copyright © 2012 Remedy Health Media, LLC. All Rights Reserved.
