Prostate - Prostatic Intraepithelial Neoplasia (PIN)
Prostatic intraepithelial neoplasia, also called PIN is a name given to cells that are more atypical than normal cells but not as atypical as cancer cells. Because of the atypical shape of PIN cells, it is thought to be a pre-cancerous condition of the prostate. Therefore, patients who are found to have PIN are at high risk for developing prostate cancer.
A pathologist diagnoses PIN to a patient. A pathologist will look at the patient’s prostate tissue under a microscope and evaluate the shape of its cells. Again, if the cells are found to be atypical to normal cells but not as atypical as cancer cells, PIN will be diagnosed. . In addition to being diagnosed with PIN, it will be defined as high grade or low grade pin. High grade is thought to be a more aggressive form of PIN.
There is not a standard form of therapy for patients with PIN. Current recommendations include having a PSA test ever 3 to 6 months and repeat biopsies if a significant change in the PSA is noted. Some Urologists will place patients on medicine to shrink their prostate. The Center for Holistic Urology places patients on a holistic approach, one that includes a special diet and an antioxidant rich supplement regimen. The hope of this approach is that PIN will either be reversed, remain stable, and/or the time of onset of prostate cancer will be increased.
