Diagnosis and treatment of prostate cancer in elderly men

Abstract

© 2015 Medical Communications Sp. z o.o. All rights reserved. Prostate cancer is the most common malignant tumour in elderly men in Europe. The prevalence rate of prostate cancer is still increasing. This is related to higher costs of treatment. The biology of prostate cancer indicates that it belongs to a group of non-homogeneous tumours, including both neoplasms of small malignancy and clinical importance as well as neoplasms of high malignancy and great impact on the quality of life and lifespan. In the past years, many studies and meta-analyses on adjustment of diagnosis and treatment of prostate cancer to age and comorbidities have been conducted. The abovementioned studies show that not everyone with diagnosed prostate cancer should undergo radical treatment. In some groups of patients, complications of treatment may be greater than potential benefits, lead to the loss of the quality of life or even shorten life expectancy due to adverse effects. An individual choice of treatment is especially important in elderly men with multiple comorbidities. Therefore, the G8 and GISR questionnaires were established and assessed. Their aim is to evaluate the patient's condition and choose an appropriate treatment method. The purpose of this study is to present the results of the above-mentioned meta-analyses and guidelines. This paper was prepared based on the EAU Guidelines from 2014.