Prostate Cancer
Alternate Names : Adenocarcinoma of the Prostate
What are the treatments for the disease?
The proper management of the many stages of prostate cancer is controversial. Depending on the grade and stage of the cancer, some options are as follows:
chemotherapy
cryosurgery to freeze cancer cells
external radiation to the prostate and pelvis
hormone therapy
radioactive implants put directly into the prostate, which slowly kill cancer cells
surgery to remove part or all of the prostate and surrounding tissue
surgical removal of the testicles to block testosterone production
watchful waiting and monitoring only
Hormone therapy or chemotherapy is used mostly for men with advanced stage D disease. Hormone therapy includes use of the following:
antiandrogens, such as flutamide and bicalutamide, that block the action of testosterone
corticosteroids, such as prednisone
GnRH agonists, also known as LHRH analogues, such as goserelin and leuprolide, which reduce the body's production of testosterone
medicines that stop the production of testosterone, such as ketoconazole and aminoglutethimide
Treatment for men with prostate cancer that has spread through the body is usually confined to making them as comfortable as possible. Often the prostate is not removed. A cure for prostate cancer is not available. Researchers continue to search for a cure.
What are the side effects of the treatments?
Following are some common side effects of radiation or surgery for prostate cancer:
depression
erectile dysfunction
swelling of the extremities
urinary incontinence
Occasionally, radiation or surgery may cause the following:
bladder inflammation
bone marrow suppression
inflammation of the lining of the small intestine
lowered blood counts
severe swelling in the legs and feet
Depending on exact treatment, hormone therapy may cause the following conditions:
erectile dysfunction
fatigue
a higher risk of blood clots in the leg
nausea
osteoporosis, or bone thinning
swelling in the breasts
Often given intravenously, chemotherapy has certain common side effects, such as:
bleeding disorders
higher risk of infections
lowered blood counts
vomiting
Cryosurgery or radiation implants can be painful and expensive. However, these treatments may preserve sexual function.
What happens after treatment for the disease?
After treatment, men are regularly monitored for side effects and a recurrence of the cancer.
How is the disease monitored?
The following are used to monitor the disease:
bone scans
chest X-rays
CT scans of the pelvis
digital rectal exams
PSA tests, which are sensitive and specific for recurrence of cancer
ultrasound of the prostate
Any new or worsening symptoms should be reported to the healthcare provider.
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