Prostate cancer update: 2006

Abstract

Purpose of review: This review highlights the most important developments in the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of prostate cancer published in the medical literature over the past year.

Recent findings: Recent research has revealed a relatively high rate of prostate specific antigen screening in elderly men regardless of comorbidity status. Other findings include data that finasteride may increase the sensitivity of prostate specific antigen to detect prostate cancer. In terms of use of androgen deprivation therapy as part of primary therapy, a randomized trial has demonstrated that immediate therapy for locally advanced prostate cancer improves overall survival. There is growing literature, however, confirming the risks associated with this treatment, including an increased incidence of cardiovascular events and diabetes. New randomized trial data of adjuvant radiotherapy for high-risk disease have not demonstrated a survival benefit over observation. For patients who experience disease relapse following local therapy, definitions of biochemical failure following prostatectomy and radiation therapy are proposed. In more advanced disease, immunotherapy has preliminarily demonstrated survival benefit in a randomized trial.

Summary: Data reported over the last year have significant implications for those involved in the management of prostate cancer, ranging from primary care physicians to medical oncologists, urologists, and radiation oncologists.