PCA3 test for prostate cancer
The PCA3 test is a urine test to measure the presence of PCA3, the prostate cancer-specific gene, which is present in much higher levels in prostate cancer tissues than in normal prostate tissues.
The PCA3 test is specific in determining the presence of the prostate cancer gene, and, unlike the PSA test, will normally not pick up genes relating to benign prostate conditions. This gene-based test can be used to diagnose new cases of prostate cancer, and for men who have had previous negative biopsies and who want further reassurance.
Please note: the PCA3 test has not yet been approved by NICE (National Institute of Health and Clinical Excellence) and will be available by consultant referral only.