Prostatic Artery Embolization beneficial for treating LUTS in localized prostate cancer: Study

A study was conducted by a group of researchers from Tampa, Florida, U.S.A, to evaluate the efficacy and safety of prostatic artery embolization (PAE) on lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) in the setting of localized prostate cancer.

The researchers conducted a retrospective, single-center, institutional review board-approved study from December 2016 to June 2020.

They selected a total of 21 patients (median age, 72; range, 63–83 years) with moderate LUTS and localized prostate cancer.

Clinical effectiveness was evaluated at 6 and 12 weeks using International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) and quality of life (QoL) improvement.

Out of the total 21, Seventeen patients were scheduled to receive definitive radiotherapy (RT) after Prostatic Artery Embolization and 13 patients completed radiotherapy.

Short-term imaging signs of oncologic progression was evaluated at 6 and 12 weeks defined by at least one of the following on magnetic resonance imaging:

Ø Increased Prostate Imaging-Reporting and Data System score of index lesion(s) to at least 4

Ø New extracapsular extension

Ø Seminal vesicle involvement

Ø Pelvic lymphadenopathy

Nonparametric Wilcoxon signed-rank test was used for analysis.

The results of the study are as follows:

Ø International prostate symptom score (IPSS) improved by a median of 12 and 14 at 6 and 12 weeks, respectively.

Ø Quality of life improved by a median of 2 and 3 at 6 and 12 weeks. Prostate volume decreased by a median of 24% and 36% at 6 and 12 weeks.

Ø No patients demonstrated disease progression at 6 or 12 weeks by imaging.

Ø No patients experienced increased prostate-specific antigen after radiotherapy, grade ≥3 adverse events, or greater genitourinary toxicity.

The researchers concluded that Prostatic Artery Embolization is an efficient and safe treatment modality in men with Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms developed due to benign prostatic hyperplasia in the setting of associated, localized, and non-obstructive Prostate cancer.

Reference:

A study titled, "Effectiveness and Safety of Prostatic Artery Embolization for the Treatment of Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms from Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia in Men with Concurrent Localized Prostate Cancer" by Parikh N et. al published in Journal of Vascular and Interventional Radiology (JVIR)

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jvir.2021.03.534