Final answer:
The abbreviation for the tumor marker for prostatic disorders, including prostate cancer, is PSA, which stands for prostate-specific antigen. PCA3 is also a significant marker that is more precise than PSA and is detected through a urine test. Despite these markers, a definitive cancer diagnosis mandates a prostate biopsy.
Step-by-step explanation:
The abbreviation that refers to a tumor marker for prostatic disorders, specifically prostate cancer, is PSA, which stands for prostate-specific antigen. Another important genetic marker is PCA3, which tends to be a more accurate indicator than PSA. PCA3 is a gene that is significantly overexpressed in prostate cancer cells and can be measured through a urine test. High levels of PSA in the blood or a high concentration of PCA3 in urine are indicative of prostate cancer, but a definitive diagnosis requires a prostate biopsy.
Diagnosing Prostate Cancer
Diagnosing prostate cancer usually starts with a physical exam and a PSA blood test, but these are not definitive. High PSA levels can suggest the presence of cancer, but can also be influenced by other conditions. If a lump is detected or PSA levels are high, it may lead to more detailed imaging like ultrasound or MRI, and ultimately, a confirmation of cancer requires a biopsy of the prostate.