The detection of prostatic carcinoma. 4- or 7-MHz transrectal ultrasonography?

In this prospective study a comparison of 4-versus 7-MHz transrectal ultrasonography for the detection of prostatic carcinoma is reported. A total of 150 prostates were biopsied due to suspicion of malignancy arising at either digital rectal examination, 4- and/or 7-MHz transrectal ultrasonography, or elevated serum prostate-specific antigen levels. Malignancies of the prostate were detected in 68 of the 147 eligible biopsy core specimens. The results show only marginal differences in the sensitivity, specificity, and predictive values for the two transducers.