Complications of androgen deprivation therapy for prostate... : Current Opinion in Urology (original) (raw)

Prostate cancer

Holzbeierlein, Jeffrey M; McLaughlin, Matthew D; Thrasher, J Brantley

Department of Urology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, Kansas, USA

Correspondence to Jeffrey M. Holzbeierlein MD, Assistant Professor of Urology, University of Kansas Medical Center, 3901 Rainbow Blvd, Mail Stop 3016, Kansas City, KS 66160, USA Tel: +1 913 588 7564; fax: +1 913 588 7625; e-mail: [email protected]

Abbreviations

ADT: androgen deprivation therapy

BMD: bone mineral density

LHRH: luteinizing hormone releasing hormone

PSA: prostate-specific antigen

Abstract

Purpose of review

Androgen deprivation as a form of treatment for prostate cancer has been used for decades. Within the last decade, however, there has been a significant increase in its use. Therefore, it is incumbent upon the physician to be familiar with the side effects associated with this treatment.

Recent findings

Some of the side effects such as osteoporosis, changes in lipid profiles, and anemia may have significant morbidity associated with them, while other side effects such as impotence, decreased libido, fatigue, and hot flashes primarily affect the patient's quality of life. Prevention strategies and treatments exist for many of these side effects.

Summary

This review will update physicians treating patients with androgen deprivation therapy on the side effects associated with this treatment. Once physicians are aware of the potential side effects, they can educate patients on what to expect when starting androgen deprivation therapy. More importantly, physicians can now prevent some of these complications prior to their occurrence, and when these complications occur they have knowledge of the latest treatments.