Argumentative Papers On Pspa - 876 Words

Controversial PSA test In 1994, prostate-specific antigen (PSA) was officially approved for PCa screening by the FDA, and 4.0 ng/ml was set as the upper limit of normal range. Following its prevalent use, PSA became the most frequent method of detecting PCa and has resulted in a considerable stage migration. However, considerable controversy remains about PSA screening, due to questions regarding survival benefit, cost effectiveness, and clinical factors such as the optimal age and total PSA at which to recommend biopsy [5], also increase in the levels of PSA is not as specific as it is sensitive for diagnosis. A rise in the PSA level can reflect the presence of cancerous cells, but can also be related to nonmalignant disorders such as†¦show more content†¦Prognostic biomarkers predict the natural course of the cancer to distinguish the tumor’s outcome. They also help determine whom to treat, how aggressively to treat, which candidates will likely respond to a given drug, and the most effective dose. Predictive biomarkers evaluate the probable benefit of a particular treatment. Pharmacodynamic biomarkers assess the imminent treatment effects of a drug on a tumor and can possibly determine the proper dosage in the early stages of clinical development of a new anticancer drug [11]. Identification of disease-specific molecular biomarkers is a rational approach to addressing current clinical challenges of whom to biopsy, whom to offer certain interventional therapies, in whom to alter therapeutic strategies, and in whom to follow up treatment outcome [12, 13]. With recent advances in biotechnology, many potential blood biomarkers have been identified and are currently under investigation. In this review, we will discuss and list some of the biomarkers that have a substantial amount of supportive data to be beneficial biologically and clinically, and other potential candidates are still under investigation. Selected PCa markers The prostate health index (PHI) The prostate health index is a new formula that combines all three forms (total PSA, free PSA, and p2PSA) into a single score that can be used to aid in clinical decision making [14].