Comparing Multigene Molecular Testing Results of MRI-Target Versus Systematic Prostate Needle Biopsies of Candidates...

Introduction: The multigene molecular testing of prostate cancer tissue after biopsy provides individualized information to guide further management. The utility of selective genetic testing for MRI-visible target versus systematic cancer in patients as well as during different time points of active surveillance (AS) is unknown. The objective of this study was to compare Prolaris^TM results of MRI-target cancers versus systematic cancers on prostate needle biopsy as well as both during consideration for initial AS candidacy and candidacy for remaining on AS. Methods: Our prospectively maintained institutional multiparametric (mp) MRI prostate cancer active surveillance database (2013-2024) was queried for patients that underwent Prolaris^TM genetic testing of positive biopsy cores. Baseline information for PSA, PSA density, and Prolaris^TM calculated data were collected. Information on the timing of the Prolaris testing, defined as during the initial cancer diagnostic biopsy or on a subsequent confirmatory biopsy was collected. SPSS v29.0 was used to compare the selective Prolaris^TM results of MRI-target cancers versus systematic cancers during different points of AS. Results: 264 patients with a Prolaris^TM test were identified, 86 with MRI-target and 178 on systematic cancers. 182 Prolaris^TM tests were sent on a diagnostic biopsy and 81 on a subsequent biopsy. Overall, MRI-target cancers had similar risk scores (3.23 vs. 3.14, p = 0.18). Prolaris^TM scores were higher for GG2 systematic than GG1 target cancers (3.40 vs. 3.18, p = 0.023). The GG2 systematic lesion cohort also had higher predicted the 10-year disease-specific mortality (DSM) (3.40% vs. 2.30%, p < 0.01) and 10-year metastasis risk (1.90% vs. 1.20%, p = 0.013), and more aggressive recommended treatment. Analyses of the Prolaris^TM results sent during a diagnostic biopsy yielded similar results. Finally, on an analysis of the Prolaris^TM results sent during subsequent biopsy, a systematic GG2 biopsy was noted to have a higher 10-year DSM and metastasis rate, but similar risk scores and treatment recommendations. Conclusions: Prolaris^TM tests can be sent at multiple time points of AS, and selectively for MRI-visible versus higher grade cancers. There is no consistent association between MRI-visible cancer and Prolaris risk profile. When utilizing multigene molecular testing in prostate cancer, each individual patient must be evaluated to decide the appropriate level of care.