Scientists from St Andrews and Edinburgh universities are leading research into a new genetic test which could help in the fight against prostate cancer.
Men thought to have prostate cancer could receive a more accurate diagnosis thanks to a simple genetic test, research has shown.
The procedure will help identify the cancer if it is missed in routine check-ups, and will save patients undergoing repeated invasive investigations which carry a risk of infection.
Scientists who led the research say the improved test works by recognising the “halo” of cells which form around a prostate tumour.
These cells, which can appear healthy under a microscope, contain silenced genes which turn off the cell’s natural protection against tumour growth.
Researchers say by identifying genetic changes in these halo cells they can tell that a patient is more likely to have a tumour, even if their tissue sample shows no cancerous cells.
More than one in 10 men tested for prostate cancer receives an inconclusive result and has to have a second biopsy which can be painful and carries a risk of serious infection.
This is often because the first tissue sample taken is clear, while their blood test reveals high levels of the PSA protein prostate-specific antigen which is associated with prostate cancer.
The team examined prostate tissue from 500 men who had undergone a prostate check-up and received inconclusive results.
The new test correctly identified hidden tumours in seven out of 10 cases without the need for a second biopsy. The test was also 90% effective in showing which patients did not have prostate cancer.
It provided peace of mind to those without the disease, and prevented two-thirds of men from undergoing a second, unnecessary biopsy.
Dr Grant Stewart, clinical lecturer in urology at Edinburgh University, who jointly led the study said: “Prostate cancer is the most common cancer for men in the UK although it can be challenging to diagnose as these tumours are not easily seen on scans.
“Our work shows that there is a more precise way of detecting these cancers.
“This new test helps us to see the ripple effect of a tumour so that even if the cells we examine aren’t cancerous, we can tell there might be a tumour nearby.”
The test is now available in the US. The team hopes to work with the NHS to introduce it into routine prostate checks in the UK.