The value of 3 tesla magnetic resonance imaging for the detection and aggressivenes assessment of prostate cancer - from theory to practice

Prostate cancer is one of the most common and impactful cancers in men, yet current diagnostic methods—such as PSA testing and random biopsies—often miss tumours or underestimate their aggressiveness.

This thesis demonstrates the value of 3 Tesla multiparametric MRI (mpMRI) as a powerful, non-invasive tool for detecting, localising, and assessing prostate cancer. By combining advanced imaging techniques, mpMRI can identify suspicious areas, guide targeted biopsies, and more accurately determine tumour aggressiveness.

Key findings show that MRI-guided biopsies are far more accurate than traditional methods, require fewer tissue samples, and better reflect the true severity of the disease. In addition, imaging biomarkers such as diffusion measurements and metabolic analysis can help distinguish between low-risk and aggressive cancers.

Overall, this research supports a major shift in prostate cancer care: mpMRI should be used in diagnosis, evaluation, and treatment planning. This approach can improve accuracy, reduce unnecessary procedures, and enable more personalised patient care.