Using the functional FACS assay following NIR staining, we tested the detection of EpCAM+CD45−DAPI+ cells, henceforward referred to as total CTCs, in clinical PCa patients with emphasis on the EpCAM+CD45−NIR+DAPI+ events (henceforward referred to as live or NIR+ CTCs). Here, EPCAM is linked to posterior cortical atrophy.