Combination treatment in metastatic prostate cancer: is the bar too high or have we fallen short?

Nat Rev Urol. 2023 Feb;20(2):116-123. doi: 10.1038/s41585-022-00669-z. Epub 2022 Dec 12.

Abstract

Androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) alone has been the cornerstone of treatment for patients with newly diagnosed metastatic prostate cancer for the past century. Based on results from landmark trials in the past decade, combination approaches of ADT with chemotherapy or novel hormonal agents have established a new standard of care for these patients. This paradigm shift in treatment has been reflected in the updates to guideline recommendations of major professional associations. However, real-world data from around the world have highlighted the dismal adoption of combination therapy, despite evidence-based recommendations. The disparity between evidence and practice is concerning, especially with emerging evidence of survival benefit with further treatment intensification using triplet combinations (ADT, docetaxel and novel hormonal agents). Thus, a pressing need to raise awareness and call the uro-oncology community to action exists to deliver evidence-based care for these patients.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Androgen Antagonists / therapeutic use
  • Antineoplastic Combined Chemotherapy Protocols / therapeutic use
  • Combined Modality Therapy
  • Docetaxel / therapeutic use
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Prostatic Neoplasms* / drug therapy
  • Prostatic Neoplasms* / pathology
  • Treatment Outcome

Substances

  • Androgen Antagonists
  • Docetaxel