Long-term survival in prostate cancer patients with biochemical recurrence following radical prostatectomy and adjuvant radiotherapy

This study evaluated the long-term survival of prostate cancer patients who have experienced biochemical recurrence (BCR) after radical prostatectomy (RP) and adjuvant radiotherapy (aRT). The authors of the study found that certain features of the cancer can predict poorer survival rates.

Many newly diagnosed patients with prostate cancer that is confined to the prostate gland are treated with RP (complete removal of the prostate and some of the tissue around it). However, even after the surgeon removed all the visible cancer, some cancer cells may still remain. These patients may benefit from aRT. This additional treatment may lower the risk of the cancer returning (BCR).

This study included 336 prostate cancer patients who were treated with RP + aRT and who experienced BCR. 35% of patients also received adjuvant hormonal therapy. The 10-years survival rate for the participants in this study was around 79%. Patients with a short time to BCR, a higher risk disease (high Gleason score) and 2 or more positive lymph nodes had lower survival rates than other patients. 

In summary, certain characteristics can indicate the likelihood of poorer cancer outcomes. A short time from RP to BCR, a Gleason score of 8 or more, and two or more positive lymph nodes are all predictors of lower survival rates and could be used to determine treatment options.

This study looks back at patients who have been treated in the past (retrospective study) rather than following the patients throughout their treatment and determining their outcomes (prospective study). Retrospective studies are considered to provide weak statistical evidence. Also, no treatment options are discussed for these patients.