Prostate PCA3 Test: The Prostate Cancer Urine Test

Posted on November 9th, 2009 in Duncan Harriss, Prostate PCA3 test

The PCA3 molecular urine assay is a relatively new test, an additional screening method that is available to consultant urologists. The new PCA3 test is not a screening test that can be performed by itself. It should be combined with a PSA measurement.

Currently, prostate biopsy is the only way to diagnose prostate cancer which affects 1 in 12 men in the UK each year.  It is possible that the PCA3 prostate cancer urine test may reduce the number of biopsies that a patient may require.

The PCA3 is carried out on a urine sample.  Following rectal examination of the prostate, prostate cells enter the urine and can be tested for the PCA3 cancer gene.  PCA3 is highly specific to prostate cancer and therefore in relation to PSA does not increase as a consequence to benign enlargement of the prostate or prostatitis.  Studies are showing that the PCA3 test is more accurate following a first negative biopsy and the the PCA3 test accurately predicts the results of repeat biopsies rather than the traditional prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test.

The PCA3 test is painless, takes 5 minutes to perform and as of November 2009 costs £450.  Results are returned within 7 to 10 days.  It is not currently available on the NHS.  If you would like further information, please ring my secretary on 0115 966 2118.