
About this test
Produces a risk estimate for clinically significant prostate cancer by combining laboratory and clinical information. It is a risk-assessment tool, not a cancer diagnosis, and the result is intended to help a clinician decide whether investigations such as MRI or biopsy should be considered.
At a glance
- Sample: Two EDTA venous-blood tubes
- Collection: Requires an arranged venous blood draw and time-controlled delivery to the laboratory; it is not a postal finger-prick test
- Estimated turnaround: 2 weeks from laboratory receipt of a usable sample
What this test measures
- Stockholm3 risk model
- A laboratory risk model combining blood proteins, genetic markers and clinical information to estimate the likelihood of clinically significant prostate cancer. TDL does not publish the individual model components on its catalogue page. An in-range or out-of-range result is not a diagnosis by itself; clinicians interpret it using the laboratory range, symptoms, medical history and related tests.
How clinicians use this test
Clinicians use the Stockholm3 risk score to help estimate the likelihood of clinically significant prostate cancer and decide whether further assessment may be appropriate. It does not replace a prostate assessment, MRI, biopsy or specialist judgement.
Is this the right test for you?
This may suit someone entering a clinician-led prostate-cancer risk assessment who can attend an arranged venous blood collection. It is not suitable as an unsupervised postal finger-prick test.
Preparation and collection
Arrange the collection and transport pathway before ordering. Both tubes must reach TDL within 48 hours of collection and must not be posted.
Understanding your result
The report gives a risk estimate rather than a simple positive or negative diagnosis. A higher score does not prove cancer and a lower score cannot exclude it; the clinician uses the score with age, symptoms, examination and other information to plan next steps.
Your results and next steps
The ordering clinician should explain the risk score and whether prostate MRI, specialist referral, repeat testing or another investigation is appropriate.
Limitations
The published TDL page does not list the model’s individual protein, genetic and clinical inputs. The score cannot diagnose or rule out prostate cancer and is useful only within a clinician-led follow-up pathway.
When to get medical help
Do not wait for a home-test result if you feel seriously unwell. Call 999 for a life-threatening emergency, or use NHS 111 when you need urgent advice and are unsure what to do.
Who this test is for
- People who want a clearer view of the concern described above
- Anyone comfortable using the stated sample-collection method
- People who want doctor-reviewed results and practical next-step guidance
How it works
How to prepare
- Read the instructions before collecting your sample
- Check whether timing, fasting or medication guidance applies
- Collect and post on the same day wherever possible
Understanding your results
Clear ranges and doctor guidance
Your secure report shows the measured values, reference ranges and a doctor’s comment where appropriate.