What does the PCA3 test involve?
PCA3 is a more precise alternative to the commonly used PSA level determination. In 75% of all men with increased PSA levels, a biopsy may be performed unnecessarily. The PSA level may be increased, for example, due to benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) or inflammatory condition, unrelated to prostate cancer. The similar considerations apply to determination of free PSA, PSA density (PSAD) or evaluation of the rate of change in PSA levels (PSA velocity).
What is the purpose of the PCA3 test?
The PCA3 test is a more advanced genetic test determining expression of the PCA3 gene (Prostate Cancer Gene 3), characterised by very high sensitivity and specificity for prostate cancer. This test is a method for non-invasive diagnostics of prostate cancer, qualification for a biopsy or repeat biopsy, evaluation of disease staging and aggressiveness, and treatment monitoring.
Scientific reports confirm benefits of using the PCA3 test as a tool helpful when making a decision regarding qualifying a patient for a prostate biopsy.
What does the PCA3 test involve?
The PCA3 test (APTIMA PCA3 test, Gen-Probe Incorporated, San Diego, CA, USA) is a non-invasive diagnostic test determining expression of PCA3 RNA in urine collected after prostate massage during per rectum examination.
PCA3 directly depends on the number of prostate cancer cells that get into urine following the gland massage. Therefore, it is assumed that larger and more aggressive tumours release more cancer cells into urine.
(Source: Przegląd Urologiczny)
Who should undergo the PCA3 test and when?
The test is intended for:
- men with increased PSA levels or with abnormal results of DRE exam (prostate transrectal exam), and a decision about a prostate biopsy must be made;
- men with values for free PSA and total PSA not decisive to recommend a prostate biopsy;
- maintained suspicion of prostate cancer, when a biopsy result does not confirm its presence;
- men genetically predisposed to prostate cancer (when their father, father's brothers or grandfather had prostate cancer);
- when cancer cells are found in prostate biopsy cores, and a risk for progression and a disease aggressiveness should be evaluated.
How can I arrange an appointment for PCA3 test?
Please contact us for consultation and confirming the need for the test, using the free online consultation. We will gladly analyse your medical history and answer all your questions.
To arrange the treatment, please contact the Patient coordination department at: + 48 606 994 372 or by email: contact@hifuclinic.eu.
See also
POSITRON EMISSION TOMOGRAPHY WITH PSMA LABELLING (68GA-PSMA-PET/MRI)
PET test (positron emission tomography) allows to visualise various metabolic conditions...
MRI/TRUS fusion guided targeted prostate biopsy
This procedure is performed in patients with increased PSA levels and when any anomalies are found...
CONSULTATION OF THE PROSTATE MAGNETIC RESONANCE SCAN
A correct diagnosis of prostate cancer is a very important part of the cancer diagnostic process...