PCA3 Tests

What is a PCA3 Test?

The PCA3 test is a genetic test based on DNA technology which provides a different measurement of prostate cancer risk than the standard Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) test.

Advances in medical technology have enabled scientists to detect miniscule processes within cells, such as the way genes express their coded information.

PCA3 is the expression of genes found in prostate cancer cells. Up to 100 times more PCA3 is present in prostate cancer cells than non-cancerous cells.

If a patient has a high proportion of PCA3, this can be detected in the patient’s urine.

The PCA3 test may be combined with a rectal examination and a negative test can reassure patients and together with an MRI scan, may help avoid the need for prostate biopsies.

This test can prevent many men from having unnecessary, repeated biopsies and indicate whether men are likely to have significant and aggressive prostate cancer.

We advise patients whether a PCA3 test is likely to be helpful in establishing a precise assessment of your prostate cancer risk.

“I feel confident that Mr Doherty knows what's going on in my body, and I know that I can go back at any time and see him if I have problems.”