Reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction and immunocytochemistry from bone marrow and peripheral blood for detection of microdisseminated prostate cancer. A comparative analysis

Reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) assay for prostate -specific antigen and immunocytochemistry for cytokeratin-18 (CK-18) are te sts for the detection of microdisseminated carcinoma of the prostate. Bone marrow aspirates and peripheral venous blood from 50 patients with clinical ly organ-confined prostate cancer were examined. The rate of positive results was independent of the pT stage, serum PSA, an d previous antiandrogen treatment. RT-PCR and immunocytochemistry have to b e tested under standardized conditions in prospective trials,and the result s have to be compared to the serum PSA follow-up.