Urologic Debate Part 1: MRI vs. Molecular Markers – Which One Should I Use? MRI Perspective
In the first part of this urologic debate, Guilherme Godoy, MD, MPH, Assistant Professor of Urology and Urology Oncology at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, Texas, argues for multiparametric MRI (mpMRI) as the better diagnostic tool for finding prostate cancer as compared to molecular markers. He observes that while there are many different commercial markers available to aid decision-making before diagnosis, at initial diagnosis, and after treatment, mpMRI can help in all three of these prostate cancer management spaces. Dr. Godoy also argues that while molecular tests may inform risk, a biopsy preceded by MRI will still be necessary, and that biopsy can be improved and optimized by mpMRI. He then discusses different techniques and equipment that can be used with mpMRI, how to interpret and report the results from mpMRI, and the trial evidence for mpMRI’s effectiveness. Dr. Godoy concludes that mpMRI functions as “the ideal biomarker,” as it increases accuracy and decreases the number of biopsies and helps to optimize care after cancer diagnosis.
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