What is Prolaris?
Prolaris is a genomic test that measures the expression levels of genes involved in cell cycle progression. It is primarily used to assess the aggressiveness of
prostate cancer by evaluating how quickly cancer cells are dividing and growing. This test provides a
Prolaris Score, which helps to predict the risk of cancer progression.
How Does Prolaris Work?
Prolaris analyzes the activity of 31 genes related to cell division and compares them to the activity of 15 reference genes. The resulting score is used to estimate the aggressiveness of the cancer. A higher Prolaris Score indicates a higher risk of
disease progression and may influence treatment decisions.
Who Should Consider Prolaris Testing?
Men diagnosed with early-stage prostate cancer are the primary candidates for Prolaris testing. It is particularly useful for those with
low-risk or
intermediate-risk prostate cancer, as it provides additional information that can help in choosing between active surveillance and more aggressive treatment options.
Providing a personalized risk assessment that helps in making informed treatment decisions.
Helping to identify patients who might safely opt for
active surveillance instead of immediate treatment.
Aiding in the selection of appropriate treatment strategies, potentially reducing overtreatment and its associated side effects.
What is the Process for Prolaris Testing?
The process involves obtaining a tissue sample from a prostate biopsy. This sample is then sent to a specialized laboratory where the gene expression is analyzed. The Prolaris Score is generated and provided to the healthcare provider, who will discuss the results with the patient to guide treatment decisions.
How Reliable is Prolaris?
Prolaris has been validated in multiple clinical studies, demonstrating its ability to predict prostate cancer outcomes. It is recognized by various medical societies and guidelines as a useful tool in prostate cancer management. However, it is important to consider it as part of a comprehensive diagnostic approach.
Are There Any Limitations to Prolaris?
While Prolaris provides valuable insights, it is not a standalone diagnostic tool. It should be used in conjunction with other clinical factors such as PSA levels, Gleason score, and imaging results. Additionally, the test is currently specific to prostate cancer and not applicable to other cancer types.
Conclusion
Prolaris is a powerful genomic test that enhances the understanding of prostate cancer aggressiveness. By providing a personalized risk assessment, it aids in making more informed treatment decisions, ultimately improving patient outcomes. As with any medical test, it is essential to discuss the results with a healthcare provider to fully understand its implications.
