Quick version
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has quickly become a crucial tool in modern prostate diagnostics. By detecting clinically significant cancer while reducing the risk of overdiagnosis, MRI provides a safer and more patient-friendly route to diagnosis. When the examination is combined with advanced blood tests, such as Stockholm3, the accuracy is further increased. At the Test Clinic, we offer an accessible and cost-effective comprehensive solution – especially aimed at those of you who have a hereditary risk or want to gain clarity about your prostate health.
At the Test Clinic, we now offer a combined prostate check that combines both blood tests with follow-up MRI of the prostate – especially designed for men over 50 years of age with a hereditary risk.
MR Imaging Revolutionizes Prostate Cancer Diagnostics
Prostate cancer is the most common cancer among men in Sweden, with over 10,000 new cases each year. Despite its prevalence, there is still no national screening program, primarily due to the risks associated with traditional PSA testing — particularly overdiagnosis and overtreatment. Groundbreaking research from Karolinska Institutet now shows that magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may be the key to safer, more accurate, and less invasive diagnostics.
Halved Overdiagnosis with MRI
The large-scale STHLM3MR study demonstrated that MRI, when combined with targeted biopsies, can reduce overdiagnosis of prostate cancer by half. By identifying clinically significant tumors while avoiding the detection of indolent changes, the need for invasive biopsies — which can lead to complications — is substantially reduced.
Combining Blood Tests with Imaging
To further improve diagnostic precision, researchers have developed the Stockholm3 test — an advanced blood test that combines PSA, protein biomarkers, genetic markers, and clinical data. When used in conjunction with MRI, the need for MRI imaging can be reduced by approximately 30%, while overdiagnosis may decrease by up to 69%. This combination provides a powerful foundation for informed clinical decision-making.
New National Guideline: MRI Before Biopsy
Sweden’s national clinical guidelines for prostate cancer now recommend that MRI should be performed before considering prostate biopsy. This represents a major shift, placing imaging at the forefront of initial cancer evaluation. It helps reduce unnecessary anxiety and interventions, while improving the likelihood of detecting aggressive cancers early.
At Testmottagningen, we share this vision. Our goal is to make cost-effective and accessible prostate MRI available to more men who are concerned about their prostate health — without requiring a referral or enduring long wait times. We offer both MRI and blood testing for a comprehensive and evidence-based evaluation.
Combined Prostate Assessment at Testmottagningen
We now offer a tailored prostate health assessment that combines blood testing (including PSA or Stockholm3) with prostate MRI. This service is particularly recommended for men over the age of 50 — especially those with a family history of prostate cancer (e.g., if your father or brother has been diagnosed).
The purpose is to provide a complete diagnostic picture with high clinical accuracy, without subjecting you to unnecessary procedures.
When You Should Consider a Prostate MRI:
- You are 50 years or older and want to evaluate your prostate health.
- You have a family history of prostate cancer (first-degree relative affected).
- Your PSA level is elevated or shows significant variation over time.
- You have been recommended a biopsy and wish to undergo MRI first.
- You prefer a more precise and non-invasive diagnostic approach.
- You are worried about prostate cancer and want fast, clear answers.
