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Prostate Cancer- a new diagnostic test

September 22, 2007 by Leave a Comment

 

Progensa (PCA3), a new genetic test which helps to diagnose prostate cancer was launched in England. It is the most specific test to diagnose prostate cancer when compared to PSA (Prostate Specific Antigen). Progensa was elevated only in cancerous prostate tissue. Progensa is a more specific test and is especially beneficial in those who have family history of prostate cancer.

 

Current standard diagnostic test is Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) test which identifies raised levels of protein in the blood that leaks out of the Prostate gland. PSA test will sometimes give misleading results.

 

New diagnostic test measures PCA3 in urine, a genetic chemical, messenger RNA which transfers DNA from the PCA3 gene. New test will give some guidance whether or not to proceed with biopsies which are a painful process.

 
 
But PCA3 is 20 times costlier than PSA. So PCA3 may not be used routinely when compared to PSA due to this cost factor. But PCA3 will save unnecessary cost by reducing the number of biopsies done.

 

Progensa test was developed by Gen-Probe.

 

Prostate Cancer Symptoms:
 
 
 
1. Need for increased urination especially at night.
 
 
2. Difficulty in passing urine.

 
 
3. Urgency to urinate.

 
 
4. Taking long time to finish.

 
 
5. A weak flow.

 
 
6. Difficulty in getting and keeping an erection.

 
 
7. A feeling that your bladder has not emptied properly.

 
 
8. Pain on passing urine.

 
 
9. Lower back pain.

 
 
10. Pain in the hips and genitals.
 
 
11. Blood in the urine or semen.
 
 
 
Even though cost is a hindrance, Progensa is a big step in the diagnosis of prostate cancer.
 
 
 
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