PCA3 Test For Prostate Cancer

PCA3 test is a diagnostic test for prostate cancer that measures the level of a specific gene in urine samples. PCA3 
(Prostate Cancer Gene 3) test helps identify the risk of prostate cancer and assists in decision-making regarding further diagnostic procedures.

PCA3 Test

Here are the basic details of the PCA3 Test.

*PCA3 Test Price range may vary as per location, lab type, and procedure of lab test.

PCA3 Test Means

The PCA3 test is used to assess the risk of prostate cancer.

• It measures the expression of PCA3, a gene associated with prostate cancer.
• Higher PCA3 scores may indicate an increased risk of prostate cancer.
• The test aids in personalized prostate cancer management.
• It's particularly useful for men with elevated PSA levels but negative biopsies.
• PCA3 testing complements other prostate cancer diagnostic tools.

PCA3 Test Purpose

The purpose of the PCA3 Test is to:

• Assess the risk of prostate cancer.
• Measure the expression of the PCA3 gene.
• Aid in personalized prostate cancer management.
• Complement other prostate cancer diagnostic tools.
• Assist in decision-making for prostate biopsies.

PCA3 Test Preparation

Here is the basic preparation for the PCA3 Test.

Before Test

• Consult with your healthcare provider to understand the test's purpose.
• Inform your healthcare provider about any medications, supplements, or allergies.
• There are typically no specific dietary or fasting requirements.

During Test

• Stay relaxed and cooperate with the healthcare professionals.
• A urine sample is usually collected for this test.

After Test

• Resume your regular activities and medications as advised by your healthcare provider.
• Wait for the test results from your healthcare provider.
• Discuss the results with your healthcare provider to understand their implications and any necessary follow-up actions.

PCA3 Test Procedure

Here is the basic PCA3 Test Procedure.

• The test involves a urine sample.
• Before the test, a digital rectal examination (DRE) is performed to release prostate cells into the urine.
• The urine sample is analyzed to measure the expression of the PCA3 gene.
• The score obtained helps assess the risk of prostate cancer.
• Results complement other diagnostic tools and guide biopsy decisions.

PCA3 Test Result

The PCA3 test result is a score based on the ratio of PCA3 mRNA to PSA mRNA, with a laboratory-established cut-off number to determine positivity. However, it does not provide a definitive diagnosis of cancer. Healthcare practitioners use the result alongside other clinical data to assess the likelihood of a positive repeat biopsy.

• PCA3 score below the cutoff: Negative result, decreased likelihood of a positive biopsy.
• PCA3 score above the cutoff: Positive result, increased likelihood of a positive biopsy. Caution near the cutoff due to test variability.
• PCA3 does not diagnose or rule out prostate cancer but informs the decision on whether to perform another biopsy, as the biopsy remains the gold standard for diagnosis.

PCA3 Test Normal Result

Here is the normal result of the PCA3 Test

PCA3 Test Interpretation

Here is the Interpretation of the PCA3 Test.

High PCA3 Score

Here are High PCA3 Score Potential Causes:

Low PCA3 Score

Here are Low PCA3 Score Potential Causes:

Specimen Requirements For PCA3 Test

Here are the specimen requirements for the PCA3 Test.

PCA3 Test is Safe?

Generally safe with minimal risk.

• May cause mild discomfort during a digital rectal examination (DRE).
• Risks are associated with the DRE rather than the PCA3 test itself.

When Do You Get PCA3 Test Results? 

• Usually, PCA3 test results are ready within a few days.
• Patients receive results during a follow-up consultation.

PCA3 Test Limitation

Here is the basic limitation of PCA3 Test.

• It's used to assess the risk of prostate cancer but doesn't confirm or rule out the disease.
• Test accuracy can vary, and results should be interpreted alongside clinical findings.
• The PCA3 score may not reflect cancer severity or specific cancer types.
• Factors like recent biopsies can affect PCA3 scores.
• False-positive and false-negative results are possible.

PCA3 Test Risk Factors

Here are some of the risk factors of the PCA3 Test.

• Minimal physical risk, with potential discomfort during a digital rectal examination (DRE).
• Psychological concerns related to the DRE.
• Risk of false-positive or false-negative results.
• Limited risk associated with the PCA3 test itself.
• Risks primarily associated with the DRE procedure.

Doctor Recommendations After PCA3 Test Result

 Here are the Doctor's recommendations or consult a specialist after the PCA3 Test.

PCA3 Test Price

Here are the estimated PCA3 Test Prices in India with different top cities:

*Prices are approximate and vary depending on a specific laboratory or healthcare facility.

Summary

Overall, PCA3 Test assesses prostate cancer risk but does not confirm the disease, helping in personalized prostate cancer management. Also check Drlogy Test for detailed information about all medical tests for patients, doctors, scholers and medical students.

Reference

• PCA3 Test - Wikipedia [1].
• PCA3 Test - NIH [2].