PCA3

PCA3 (Prostate Cancer gene 3), also known as DD3 (Differential Display Code 3), is a gene that is over-expressed in prostate cancer cells compared to normal prostate cells. The PCA3 test is a urine test that measures the amount of PCA3 RNA in the urine. This test is used to help determine the need for repeat biopsy in men who have had a previous negative biopsy.

Overview

PCA3 is a non-coding RNA that is not translated into a protein. It is found in higher levels in prostate cancer cells than in normal prostate cells. The PCA3 test is a urine test that measures the amount of PCA3 RNA in the urine. This test is used to help determine the need for repeat biopsy in men who have had a previous negative biopsy.

PCA3 Test

The PCA3 test is a urine test that measures the amount of PCA3 RNA in the urine. This test is used to help determine the need for repeat biopsy in men who have had a previous negative biopsy. The PCA3 test is not a replacement for the PSA test, but it can provide additional information to help doctors make decisions about the need for a repeat biopsy.

Clinical Use

The PCA3 test is used in conjunction with other diagnostic tests, such as the PSA test and digital rectal exam (DRE), to help determine the need for a repeat biopsy in men who have had a previous negative biopsy. The PCA3 test is not a replacement for these other tests, but it can provide additional information to help doctors make decisions about the need for a repeat biopsy.

Limitations

The PCA3 test is not a replacement for the PSA test or digital rectal exam (DRE). It is also not a definitive test for prostate cancer. A positive PCA3 test does not necessarily mean that a man has prostate cancer, and a negative PCA3 test does not necessarily mean that a man does not have prostate cancer.

See Also

• Prostate cancer
• PSA test
• Biopsy
• Digital rectal exam