Prostate cancer biomarkers

Abstract

Prostate cancer is the second most common cancer in men in Poland. Biomarkers are helpful in diagnosing of this neoplasm. The most popular and the best known biomarker in detecting of prostate cancer is PSA which serves as the essential diagnostic tool combined with digital rectal examination. Total PSA, free PSA, proPSA and fluctuations intPSA levels in time can be measured. In patients with the established diagnosis of prostatic cancer circulating tumour, cells (CTCs) can be counted. Their concentration is increased in metastatic prostate cancer. CTCs level superior to 5/7.5 ml is associated with poor survival. Molecular phenotyping of CTCs is useful in predicting drug sensitivity and in choosing the best individual therapeutic approach. Besides blood serum investigations there are also urinary and cellular (including genetic) biomarkers. To increase the accuracy of monitoring the treatment of the cancer, multiple biomarker panels are created e.g. PSA, CTCs, albumins and LDH.