What is a Gleason Score?
A Gleason score is a system used to grade the aggressiveness of prostate cancer. It is used to determine the stage and prognosis of the cancer, and to help guide treatment decisions.
How is the Gleason Score Calculated?
The Gleason score is based on a biopsy of the prostate gland. The biopsy is examined under a microscope to determine the grade of the cancer cells. The grade is based on the size, shape, and number of the cancer cells.
The Gleason score is determined by adding the two most common grades of cancer cells found in the biopsy. For example, if the biopsy finds grade 3 and grade 4 cancer cells, the Gleason score would be 7. The higher the Gleason score, the more aggressive the cancer.
What Does the Gleason Score Mean?
The Gleason score is used to determine the stage of the cancer and the prognosis. A Gleason score of 6 or less is considered low-grade cancer, and is not likely to spread. A Gleason score of 7 or higher is considered high-grade cancer, and is more likely to spread.
The Gleason score is also used to help guide treatment decisions. The higher the Gleason score, the more aggressive the cancer, and the more aggressive the treatment needs to be.
Conclusion
The Gleason score is a system used to grade the aggressiveness of prostate cancer. It is based on a biopsy of the prostate gland and is used to determine the stage and prognosis of the cancer, and to help guide treatment decisions. The higher the Gleason score, the more aggressive the cancer, and the more aggressive the treatment needs to be.