Prostate news article, October 2007

THE PCA3 TEST - CLINICAL GUIDANCE   Article by:   Professor Roger Kirby, Chairman, Prostate UK

The PCA3 test is a new marker for prostate cancer based on a genetic analysis of cells in the urine. The urine sample is collected after a vigorous massage of your prostate by a doctor.

At the moment the test should still be considered experimental as clinical trials are still ongoing, but there is mounting evidence to confirm its effectiveness as one of the tools we can use to help us decide whether or not a man has cancer in his prostate.

However, the PCA3 test is not a “screening” test that can be performed in isolation and tell you whether or not you do have cancer. It should be seen as just one possible stage in your assessment by a urologist, if there is any reason for suspicion – for example, if you have had blood tests showing a high PSA reading, or if you have had biopsies in the past which have come back negative in spite of a raised PSA.

The result of the PCA3 test has to be taken into consideration along with the PSA measurement (or preferably measurements over time), a digital rectal examination by a doctor and any previous history of prostate investigations.

The ultimate aim, if the test proves as accurate as is claimed, is to avoid the inconvenience of an unnecessary biopsy (or repeat biopsies) for many men whose diagnosis is uncertain. A negative PCA3 result means that a biopsy can probably be avoided or postponed; a positive result means it would probably be wise to perform or repeat biopsies. A biopsy is, for now, the only way to be certain whether cancer cells are present.

If you believe the PCA3 test may be appropriate in your case, you should consult your doctor or urologist for further advice and possibly a referral.