Urol. praxi, 2015; 16(4): 162-164
Treatment options in the care of patients with malignant prostate tumours have expanded significantly in the recent years. Local therapy,
whether surgical or radiation, and watchful waiting are suitable options for localized disease. Advanced diseases can no longer be cured,
but in combination with local therapy, particularly radiation therapy, advanced tumours can be affected therapeutically by adding hormonal
therapy. For generalized disease, systemic hormonal therapy is the treatment of choice. A response to hormonal therapy can be
expected in more than 80% of patients with generalized disease. The duration of the response varies. The disease progresses gradually
and, despite castration testosterone levels, becomes castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC). Different growth characteristics of
tumour cells in CRPC allow cytotoxic treatment. Administration of docetaxel in a 3-week regimen results in prolonged survival, but the
duration of the response is limited. In recent years, we have witnessed the advent of novel agents, both those affecting bone metabolism
as well as new-generation cytotoxic and hormonal ones. Gradually, these drugs are included in the treatment algorithms for patients
with metastatic CRPC. Their use is limited by the regulatory agency measures based on the outcomes of registration studies. Initially, all
the novel agents were used following previous chemotherapy with docetaxel and were considered second-line treatment. Today, it is
possible to administer second-generation hormonal agents in chemonaive patients as well. The treatment of mCRPC is headed toward
highly individualized care of the particular patient.
Published: November 1, 2015 Show citation