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Definition of Active Surveillance

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Updated December 23, 2009

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Definition:

Active surveillance, also known as "watchful waiting," is an option for certain men who have been diagnosed with prostate cancer. It is an alternative to active treatments such as prostatectomy and/or radiation therapy .

During active surveillance, a man is examined on a regular basis for signs of cancer progression using physical examination, the PSA test and, sometimes, other tests such as CT scans, ultrasound, or MRI.

Also Known As: watchful waiting
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