Hello Mummy22,

It must be a worrying time for you to see your grandfather being booked in for all these tests but rest assured they are just doing the right thing and carrying out the necessary investigations. We have some information about tests to diagnose prostate cancer on this page and if you have any questions for example about the order in which they are doing things don't hesitate to ask his medical team.

You are also very welcome to give our nurses a call on this free number 0808 800 4040 - their line is open Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm and they will be happy to help with any questions you may have.

Best wishes,

Lucie, Cancer Chat Moderator

Hi Mummy22. Welcome to the forum.

I'm not a doctor, but I went through the prostate cancer mill back in 2010, and I picked up a lot of information along the way.

An older man presenting with a raised PSA and a "firm" prostate should definitely be referred for further tests. The order of the tests might vary depending upon the consultant and the availability of testing slots, but biopsy, bone scan, and MRI are commonly performed. 

What happens afterwards depends on the test results, so fingers crossed that the results are good.  And if the results are not good, then please be reassured that much can be done, even for more serious cases. 

While you're here, I'll mention that in addition to Cancer Research (this site) there are two more excellent prostate cancer charities in the UK, where you can find more information, and also join a more specialised on-line forum.  The charities are Prostate Cancer UK and Tackle Prostate Cancer.

I should also mention that the days when doctors only referred patients for tests to confirm their suspicions are just about over. You should never assume that because you (or a family member) have been referred for a particular test, the doctor "thinks" you have cancer.  It no longer works that way (if it ever it).  Most doctors are following the NICE guidelines, and it's the guidelines that recommend the necessary tests.