[Radiotherapy of localized prostatic cancer: follow-up of 48 patients. G.C.C.P. (Cooperative Group for the Study of Prostatic Cancer)]

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the safety and long-term efficacy of curative-intent radiation therapy in patients with apparently localized prostate cancer.

Method: 48 patients with T < 3 M0 prostate cancer recruited between 1981 and 1985 received regular clinical follow-up for at least ten years or until their death. Radiation therapy was given according to the protocols established by Ray and Bagshaw.

Results: Radiation therapy was safe and effective in most patients. The rate of escape phenomenon was less than 10% after two years. Tumor control rates were greater than 80% after five years and 50% after ten years. Unfortunately, local remission, even when prolonged, did not necessarily indicate a complete cure: 20% of local recurrences developed five to 11 years after radiation therapy.

Conclusion: Radiation therapy may be the best first-line treatment in men older than 75 years of age and in those whose life expectancy seems shorter than ten years, but should probably not be considered curative.