PI-RADS stands for Prostate Imaging Reporting and Data System. It’s a standardized scoring system radiologists use to interpret prostate MRI scans and assess the likelihood that a suspicious area in the prostate is clinically significant prostate cancer.

The PI-RADS score ranges from 1 to 5, with higher numbers indicating greater suspicion for significant cancer.

PI-RADS Score Breakdown

PI-RADS Score

Meaning

Next Steps

1. Very low likelihood of cancer - No further action needed; routine follow-up usually sufficient

2. Low likelihood of cancer - Often no biopsy needed; monitor PSA and clinical status

3. Uncertain / intermediate risk - May require further tests or biopsy depending on risk factors

4. High likelihood of clinically significant cancer - Biopsy is generally recommended

5. Very high likelihood of clinically significant cancer - Strongly recommend biopsy to confirm diagnosis