Thanks for the MRI information.

From my research, the BRCA1 gene (and others) are evaluated via “germline genetic testing” from a person’s DNA profile obtained from blood or saliva samples. It is looking for inherited genetic mutations.

“Genomic testing” is done on cancerous tissue taken from the prostate (either biopsy or after RP) in order to provide information about how one’s prostate cancer might behave in the future.

Decipher, Prolaris and Oncotype DX are genomic tests, all of which vary in purpose but are used to evaluate aspects of the genetic makeup of the cancer cells themselves.

For those in my situation (initial diagnosed with low or intermediate risk PCa) it seems genomic testing would be the only one of interest.

For advanced PCa, where the efficacy of various ADT therapies are in question, genetic germline testing may be useful to determine the “best” chemical treatment.

Of course, family members who are curious as to whether they have inherited a genetic propensity toward PCa, because it runs in the family, may also take this particular germline genetic test…but I’m not sure what they would do about a “positive risk” result.

IMHO there are some questions that are best left unanswered. It may be easier to live with this kind of a question, than an undesirable answer….but others may think differently….