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PCA3

Meaning

PCA3, or Prostate Cancer Antigen 3, is a specific, non-coding RNA molecule that is highly and selectively overexpressed in prostate cancer cells compared to benign prostate tissue. The quantitative measurement of PCA3 messenger RNA (mRNA) in a post-digital rectal exam urine sample is used as a molecular biomarker to assess a man’s risk of prostate cancer. Its high specificity helps clinicians distinguish between benign prostate conditions and the presence of potential malignancy. This test provides a crucial, non-invasive data point for risk stratification.