An update on the serum and urinary biomarkers in diagnosing prostate cancer

Abstract

Introduction: In terms of global health issues, prostate cancer ranks high. The prostate cancer diagnosis rate is on the rise in India, where it ranks as the second most frequent malignancy among men. Most of the prostate cancers are not life threatening, but one fifth of them end up with unfavorable outcome [1]. Transrectal prostate biopsy (PBx) is used to diagnose prostate cancer widely nowadays. The results of the digital rectal examination (DRE) and/or increased blood prostate specific antigen (PSA) levels are used to determine whether a PBx is necessary [5]. Both DRE and serum PSA have low positive predictive value. A biomarker with high negative predictive value ensures confidence among the patients and health care providers for delaying undergoing biopsy of the prostate [5]. Our primary objective in doing this research was to compile a detailed inventory of all the diagnostic biomarkers now utilized in clinical practice, together with all of the relevant characteristics for each.

Methodology: All papers published during the last fifteen years were considered, including original and reviews.  Molecular markers, fractions of prostate specific antigen (PSA), prostate health index (PHI), microseminoprotein-beta (MSMB), and prostate cancer markers were the keywords used to obtain articles from the Scopus and Pub Med databases.

Conclusion:  To prove their usefulness in diagnosing and prognosing prostate cancer, several biomarkers need more evidence. This research gap has to be filled so that unwanted prostate biopsies can be minimized. This helps in achievement of prompt diagnosis and best therapeutic response.