PI-RADS
PI-RADS is the acronym for the Prostate Imaging-Reporting and Data System. PI-RADS was first implemented in 2012 and has helped significantly in the diagnosis of prostate cancer.
| PI-RADS 1 | Very low-clinically significant cancer highly unlikely |
|---|---|
| PI-RADS 2 | Low-clinically significant cancer unlikely |
| PI-RADS 3 | Intermediate-clinically significant cancer equivocal |
| PI-RADS 4 | High-clinically significant cancer likely |
| PI-RADS 5 | Very high-clinically significant cancer highly likely |
The PI-RADS systems is used with a multiparametric MRI performed to view localized abnormalities within the prostate and may indicate cancer. The MRI results are then summarized using the PI-RADS system. In general, men with a PI-RADS of 3 or higher are recommended for MRI guided biopsy (see Biomarkers (tumor markers), Number of Cores Positive/Examined for more information).
A PI-RADS of 4 or 5 without any additional information is reportable ONLY when there is a definitive statement of cancer from a managing physician.
The date of the biopsy or definitive statement from the physician is the Date of Diagnosis.
Updated: June 15, 2026
Suggested Citation
SEER Training Modules: PI-RADS. U.S. National Institutes of Health, National Cancer Institute. Cited 17 June 2026. Available from: https://training.seer.cancer.gov.