Prolaris is a gene expression test of prostate tumour tissue that provides the doctor with additional information about tumour aggressiveness.
When prostate cancer has already been diagnosed
Prolaris is intended to assess the course of the disease, not for initial cancer detection. Molecular data is combined with PSA, Gleason grading and other clinical information.
What does the test assess?
The test analyses prostate tumour RNA and the expression of genes involved in cell proliferation. Lower or higher activity provides prognostic information; treatment is not determined by a single score.
How does the result support decisions?
The result may support a decision about active surveillance, single-modal treatment or a combination of treatments. The doctor assesses it alongside other tests and your clinical situation — treatment is not selected on this score alone.
Discuss with your doctor what additional information Prolaris provides and how it may change your surveillance or treatment plan.
Sample and testing process
First discuss suitability with a urologist.
The test uses material from an existing prostate biopsy. A pathologist assesses its suitability; specific sample requirements are agreed before ordering.
A doctor discusses the laboratory result together with the clinical data.
Scientific evidence
In the 2012 study by Cuzick and colleagues, a cell cycle expression score was studied in men with prostate cancer managed conservatively, using needle biopsy material. The outcome assessed was death from prostate cancer. This was a prognostic study in a specific study population, not a guarantee for an individual patient.
The 2015 publication reported validation in a separate needle biopsy cohort of conservatively managed patients. These studies help explain the scientific basis of the score; they do not replace the current test specification.
A doctor assesses whether the test is suitable and interprets the results. Active surveillance means regular medical monitoring, not foregoing monitoring of the disease.
Before ordering, contact PharmaDNA about the specific European test version, sample requirements and testing conditions.
Official information and documents
The 2022 Prolaris patient guide below is intended for use outside the USA. Its stated turnaround time and laboratory options may differ from the conditions of a particular order in Lithuania.
