New Research Review Examines Prostate Cancer Screening Tests

A low strength of evidence exists to show that the prostate cancer antigen 3 gene test (PCA3) has better diagnostic accuracy at predicting prostate cancer than using elevated serum total prostate specific antigen (PSA) levels, according to a new research review from AHRQ’s Effective Health Care Program. However, insufficient evidence is available to conclude that the PCA3 test leads to improved intermediate or long-term health outcomes. Prostate cancer screening has been widely discussed in recent years, and the FDA recently approved a new PCA3 assay, the first molecular test to help determine the need for repeat prostate biopsies in men who have had a previous negative biopsy. When used in conjunction with other diagnostic information, the PCA3 test can better inform decision-making about repeat biopsy. More research is needed to assess the comparative effectiveness of the PCA3 test in predicting prostate cancer at biopsy and to better inform biopsy, management, and treatment decisions. Select to access the research review, PCA3 Testing for the Diagnosis and Management of Prostate Cancer.