Urine Test for Prostate Cancer Launched
The Progensa PCA3 was launched by Gen-Probe, Incorporated. The new urine-based diagnostic test provides clinicians with additional information to aid in the diagnosis of prostate cancer. Introduction of the product was detailed by Clinical Lab Products.
This test utilizes molecular analysis to assess the presence of PCA3. PCA3 is almost exclusively expressed by prostate cells, a prostate-specific gene over expressed in patients who have tumors of the prostate gland. Urine specimens are procured from patients following digital rectal examination (DRE); DRE causes prostate cells to be released into the urine.
Molecular analysis employs Transcription Mediated Amplification (TMA) in order to quantify the amount of PCA3 mRNA contained within a urine specimen. Quantitative scoring is utilized by clinicians along with other diagnostic tests to speculate about histopathologic findings from prostate biopsies.
The test is already commercially available in France, Belgium, the UK, Netherlands, and Germany after receiving the CE mark.
Prostate cancer is one of the main causes of cancer related mortality across the world. As well, it is the second most common cancer diagnosis. Current guidelines for prostate cancer assessment and diagnosis call for use of PSA testing and DRE, based on findings from those, the need for a prostate biopsy is determined.
November 26, 2007 Related topics: Laboratory, Product Launches, New Technology & Innovation, Diagnostic, Renal & Urology