What should you know about squamous cell prostate cancer?

The diagnosis is based on examining tissue, because urinary symptoms alone cannot identify the cell type. The team reviews the biopsy, examination and imaging to understand where the tumour is and whether it has involved nearby structures or bones. This pattern may behave differently from more common prostate cancers, so the treatment discussion is tailored to the findings.

Possible approaches include prostate removal surgery for selected localized disease, radiotherapy or brachytherapy in appropriate situations, and treatments that travel through the bloodstream. If cancer affects bones, targeted radioisotope therapy or bone-strengthening therapy may be considered. Robotic surgery is a technique that may be offered for some operations, not a separate cancer type.

Ask whether the pathology has been reviewed by a specialist and whether scans are needed before choosing treatment. Write down urinary changes, pain, weight change and medication effects. Difficulty passing urine can have several causes; urgent assessment is needed if you cannot pass urine, have fever or develop severe lower abdominal pain.

Contact your clinical team for worsening urinary obstruction, visible blood in urine, new severe bone pain, leg weakness or numbness, or a sudden decline in function. Seek emergency care if you cannot pass urine, lose bladder or bowel control, or develop sudden leg weakness. These symptoms require prompt assessment.

What did the biopsy confirm? Has the cancer spread beyond the prostate? What is the aim of the proposed treatment? Which options fit my health and priorities? How will urinary, bowel and sexual effects be managed?