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Can the Prostate Be Checked With a Colonscopy?

A colonoscopy is a medical testing procedure designed to detect dangerous changes in the colon or rectum. It is not used to check for changes in the nearby prostate gland.

  1. Colonoscopy

    • According to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse, your doctor performs a colonoscopy by inserting a flexible, lighted tube (colonoscope) through the anus and into the rectum and colon. A tiny camera attached to the end of the colonoscope sends live images to an external viewing monitor.

    Digital Rectal Exam

    • During a prostate exam, your doctor may perform a digital rectal exam, which involves using a gloved finger inserted in the rectum to physically detect changes in the prostate, which sits outside the rectum wall.

    Transrectal Ultrasound

    • Your doctor may also perform a transrectal ultrasound, which involves using a cigar-shaped probe inserted into the rectum to bounce sound waves off the prostate and create a detailed image of the gland, according to the Mayo Clinic.

    Similarities and Differences

    • Although these prostate exam techniques require access through the rectum, they differ from colonoscopies, which have an unrelated diagnostic purpose.

    Additional Prostate Tests

    • Additional tests performed to check prostate health include prostate biopsy (tissue sampling) and a PSA test, which measures the presence of an immune system marker linked to increased prostate cancer risks.

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