Prostate cancer is the most frequently diagnosed cancer in men and occurs predominantly after the age of 50. The type of therapy depends on the stage of the tumor as well as the age of the affected person.
Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men. In technical jargon, it is also referred to as prostate carcinoma. Statistics show that about one in seven men will develop prostate cancer in the course of his life. There are different forms of prostate cancer, which can be dangerous for the affected men. Some prostate cancers grow quickly and pose a serious threat to the men affected. Other prostate carcinomas grow comparatively slowly and do not require therapy for the time being. To classify aggressive and non-aggressive prostate cancer, the so-called Gleason score is of great importance. The Gleason score is a prognostic parameter for the assessment of prostate cancer. It is based on the fine-tissue, architectural structure of the tumor cells. The different forms of prostate cancer provide affected men with different, individualized treatment options. Before a decision is made for or against the treatment of prostate cancer, a comprehensive survey of the personal medical history and targeted diagnostics are always carried out. The life expectancy of the affected men is a decisive factor in the choice of the optimal therapy.
Definition prostate cancer
Prostate cancer is a malignant disease of the prostate gland. The exact causes for the development of prostate cancer are still unknown. However, various risk factors such as age and family predispositions seem to play a role. Typical signs may include problems urinating, blood in the urine or a burning sensation. In order to detect prostate cancer at an early stage, various screening tests such as a digito rectal examination of the prostate via the rectum and a blood test (PSA value) are performed. If prostate cancer is suspected, a tissue sample (biopsy) is taken for confirmation. Various professional societies recommend regular screening examinations for men above a certain age in order to detect possible signs of prostate cancer at an early stage and to be able to start appropriate treatment in good time.
Our experts on the topic of prostate cancer
If prostate cancer is suspected, a tissue sample is taken from the prostate for definitive diagnosis.
What causes prostate cancer
The exact causes for the development of prostate cancer are not yet fully understood. It is assumed that various factors may contribute.
Increasing age
Age is an important risk factor for prostate cancer. The risk of developing prostate cancer increases with age. Regular screening is recommended, especially after a certain age.
The hormone testosterone
Hormones can have an influence on the development of prostate cancer. Overproduction of certain hormones or hormonal disorders can promote the growth of prostate cancer. If hormonal problems are suspected, a comprehensive diagnosis should be made to rule out possible links with prostate cancer.
Genetic factors
A family predisposition to prostate cancer can also increase an individual's cancer risk. If there are already cases of prostate cancer in the family, there is a higher probability of developing it yourself. It is important to take this into account in your own health care and to work closely with a specialist.
What symptoms indicate prostate cancer?
Prostate cancer may cause no or few symptoms in early stages. The first sign of prostate cancer is often an elevated blood level, the so-called PSA (prostate specific antigen). A palpable hardening of the prostate during the digito rectal palpation can also be suspicious. Indications of prostate cancer often trigger uncertainty and fear in those affected. It is therefore all the more important to clarify any initial suspicion diagnostically. Here are some of the most common symptoms of prostate cancer that patients can look out for themselves:
Frequent urination
Blood in urine or semen
Pain in the pelvic area
Early detection of prostate cancer is crucial for timely diagnosis and treatment. An important method for detecting prostate cancer is regular blood testing(PSA level). Another warning signal can be the presence of blood in the urine. If prostate cancer is suspected, a doctor should be consulted immediately to clarify a possible malignant change in the prostate . Early diagnosis allows effective treatment of prostate cancer in many cases. Professional societies recommend regular screening for men over a certain age to detect any signs or symptoms early. Treatment options for prostate cancer include surgery, radiation therapy, focal therapy and drug therapies. Individual consultation with a specialist is of great importance. At alta uro, the diagnosis and treatment of prostate cancer is a focus.
Examination methods for suspected prostate cancer
If prostate cancer is suspected, we follow a standardized procedure at alta uro. First, we organize a multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging (mpMRI for short) of the prostate. The examination is performed in cooperation with a radiology center. This is a modern MRI technique that produces high-resolution image sequences of the prostate . Through this examination, areas suspected of cancer can be detected much earlier and more precisely. If the suspicion of prostate cancer is confirmed by mpMRI, a prostatebiopsy is necessary. Fusionand mapping biopsy of the Prostate: State-of-the-art imaging by MRI with the safe and precise procedure of perineal prostate biopsy.
How does fusion and mapping biopsy work?
When is fusion and mapping biopsy of the prostate necessary?
What is the difference between a conventional biopsy and a fusion biopsy of the prostate?
What is the procedure for a prostate biopsy?
Prostate cancer diagnosis
We know that the diagnosis of prostate cancer can initially come as a shock to many men. It is important to us to reassure our patients first and foremost. In most cases, prostate cancer is not comparable with other tumor diseases such as colon or lung cancer, for example, where rapid action is often urgently required. It is of great importance not to rush things and to consider the situation calmly. We take the time to discuss the findings with you and explain the various options for therapy. An individually adapted treatment strategy is essential and we would like to accompany our patients and their relatives on this path. Our team of experienced experts is available to assist our patients in this process. We are always open to questions and concerns. Together, we take a step-by-step approach to finding and successfully implementing the optimal therapy and maintaining our patients' quality of life in the best possible way.
Treatment options for prostate cancer
Treatment options for prostate cancer include active surveillance, surgery, radiation therapy, focal therapy, hormone therapy, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy. In active surveillance, prostate cancer is initially monitored and treated only when it becomes more aggressive. Surgery involves complete removal of the prostate. Focal therapy means that only the cancer-bearing part of the prostate is treated. Radiation therapy aims to destroy the cancer with targeted radioactive beams. In this case, the entire prostate is irradiated. Hormone therapy suppresses the growth of cancer cells by blocking male hormones and, like chemotherapy, is used for advanced tumors. Immunotherapy is used to support or stimulate the body's own immune system to better fight cancer.
Active monitoring
Prostate cancer is not very aggressive and is monitored regularly. The aim of active surveillance is to detect progression of the disease in time and to initiate treatment.
Advantages and risks of active surveillance: Active surveillance offers the advantage that invasive treatments (e.g. surgery or radiation) can be avoided, thus avoiding possible side effects and risks. However, there is also a risk that the cancer may progress during surveillance, which may require more intensive treatment later.
Regular examinations during active surveillance: During the active surveillance phase, regular examinations such as PSA tests, MRI examinations of the prostate and tissue biopsies must be performed in order to detect tumor progression in a timely manner. These examinations are crucial for deciding on further treatment measures.
Radical prostatectomy
- the "classic" prostate resection, performed with modern technology In radical prostatectomy, the prostate is completely removed along with the end pieces of the vas deferens and seminal vesicles. At alta uro, we routinely perform the procedure using the Da Vinci robotic system. For this purpose, we have the world's most modern surgical robot at our disposal.
For whom is the procedure suitable?
Radical prostatectomy is primarily suitable for men with localized prostate cancer. In these patients, the tumor has not yet spread beyond the boundaries of the prostate and metastasized. The decision for radical prostatectomy is influenced by various factors, including the extent of the tumor, the level of PSA (prostate specific antigen) in the blood, the Gleason score (degree of tumor aggressiveness) as well as the patient's age and health.
What are the advantages of this procedure?
Elimination of the tumor: Remov al of the prostate can completely remove the primary tumor and cancer-causing cells, which can lead to cure or at least a significant reduction of the tumor.
Control of the cancer: Prostatectomy aims to prevent spread of the prostate cancer to surrounding tissues or other organs.
Long-term survival benefits : Radical prostatectomy may improve long-term survival. This is especially true in cases of localized prostate cancer and favorable prognostic factors.
PSA monitoring: After surgery, blood PSA levels are monitored regularly. After surgical therapy, the PSA level should no longer be detectable.
What are the known risks and disadvantages?
Radical prostatectomy carries classic surgical risks such as infection, bleeding, injury to surrounding structures, and wound healing problems. Possible side effects include urinary incontinence, erectile dysfunction, impaired hormone production and psychological aspects. A thorough consultation with the treating specialist is important to understand the individual risks and choose the best treatment option.
Focal therapy
- the tumor is treated specifically while the healthy prostate tissue is largely spared. In focal therapy, only the portion of the prostate affected by the cancer is treated. At alta uro, we perform focal therapy using irreversible electroporation (IRE Nanoknife).
For whom is the procedure suitable?
Focal therapy is considered for men with localized prostate cancer: it targets only the portions of the prostate affected by the tumor.
What are the advantages of this procedure?
Focal therapy destroys the tumor locally. This makes the treatment gentler for the patient and often also associated with fewer side effects than surgery or radiation of the entire prostate.
What are the known risks and disadvantages?
There are risks associated with focal therapy of the prostate, such as incomplete tumor treatment, cancer recurrence, and tissue damage. In addition, long-term data are still lacking. The selection of the appropriate patient is crucial for the success of focal therapy.
Advanced prostate cancer
In the case of locally advanced tumors, surgery is also performed, but with extended removal of lymph nodes or removal of lymph node metastases. This operation is also possible in most cases with the Da Vinci robotic system.
What does locally advanced prostate cancer mean?
What are the surgical options?
What other treatment options are available?
Metastatic prostate cancer
If there is already a more advanced prostate cancer with metastases, a drug therapy is necessary. In addition, radiation therapy can be of great benefit in this situation. Treatment for advanced prostate cancer is carried out by alta uro in close coordination and cooperation with local tumor centers.
Radiotherapy
Radiation therapy for prostate cancer can vary depending on the individual case. A therapy consists of several sessions. This is where the precise alignment and positioning of the patient takes place, as well as the administration of the radiation. Side effects such as fatigue, skin irritation and digestive problems are possible, as are possible late effects such as impotence or urinary incontinence.
Hormone therapy
Hormone therapy is a common treatment option for advanced prostate cancer. This therapy aims to slow or stop the growth of cancer cells by blocking the production of certain hormones. Hormone therapy may take the form of medications and is often used in combination with other treatments such as surgery or radiation therapy.
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy is a possible treatment option for advanced prostate cancer. This involves the use of drugs to fight tumor cells in the body. Chemotherapy is often used in advanced stages of prostate cancer and can help slow the growth of the tumor or even shrink it.
Several side effects may occur with chemotherapy, such as nausea, hair loss, or fatigue. It is important to discuss these possible side effects with your treating physician and receive appropriate support during treatment. The exact duration and frequency of chemotherapy depends on various factors and is individually tailored to the patient.
Immunotherapy
Immunotherapy is a treatment method that activates the body's own immune system to attack cancer cells. It can be used for advanced prostate cancer when other therapies are not sufficiently effective.
Combined therapy
Combined therapy can be an effective treatment option for prostate cancer. It combines different therapies such as surgery, radiation therapy, and hormone therapy to achieve the best results. This combination makes it possible to maximize the effectiveness of individual forms of therapy.
Lifestyle changes and accompanying measures
... can have a positive influence on the course of prostate cancer. A healthy diet with plenty of fruit, vegetables and high-fiber foods is recommended. Regular physical activity helps to strengthen the immune system and support the healing process. In addition, supportive therapies such as acupuncture or relaxation techniques, as well as attending self-help groups, can have a positive effect on psychological well-being and thus on the course of the disease.
Healthy diet
Regular physical activity
Supportive therapies and self-help groups
FAQs
What is prostate cancer?
Prostate cancer is a malignant disease of the prostate gland. The prostate is a gland located below the bladder and is involved in the production of seminal fluid.
What are the causes of prostate cancer?
The exact causes of prostate cancer are not yet fully understood. However, it is believed that certain risk factors such as age, family predispositions, an unhealthy diet and an inactive lifestyle may play a role.
What symptoms indicate prostate cancer?
Prostate cancer may cause few or no symptoms in early stages. Typical signs may include problems urinating, blood in the urine or ejaculate, and pain in the pelvic area. It is important to note that these symptoms can also occur with other diseases, so specialist clarification is advisable.
How is prostate cancer diagnosed?
Prostate cancer is usually diagnosed by a combination of tests, including a digito rectal examination, a blood test (PSA test), and multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging (mpMRI) of the prostate. If prostate cancer is suspected, a tissue biopsy may be necessary to confirm the diagnosis.
What are the treatment options?
Treatment of prostate cancer depends on several factors, including the stage of the disease, the patient's general condition, and tumor characteristics. Possible treatment options include active surveillance, surgery, focal therapy, radiation therapy, hormone therapy, and chemotherapy.
What is the chance of cure for prostate cancer?
The chance of recovery from prostate cancer depends on the stage of the disease and the type of tumor. Tumors that are detected early and are localized usually have a good chance of cure. Early diagnosis and individually tailored treatment are crucial for the treatment outcome.
At what age should I be screened for prostate cancer?
Various professional societies recommend regular screening examinations for men above a certain age in order to detect possible signs of prostate cancer at an early stage. The recommended screening age may vary depending on risk factors, so it is advisable to discuss this with a specialist.
Is prostate cancer hereditary?
Yes, there is a hereditary (genetic) component to prostate cancer. Men who have a family history of prostate cancer may have an increased risk of also developing the disease. It is advisable to discuss family history with a specialist to better assess individual risk.
Prostatectomy: What is it?
Prostatectomy is a surgical operation to remove the prostate gland. In this operation, the entire prostate gland is removed.
When is a prostatectomy performed?
Prostatectomy is used primarily in patients with localized prostate cancer.It can also be used in advanced cancer to relieve symptomsrn and slow disease progression.
What are possible complications after prostatectomy?
Incontinence: Some patients may have temporary or permanent problems holding their urine.
Erectile dysfunction: After surgery, men may have difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection.
Infection or bleeding : As with any surgical procedure, there is some risk of infection and bleeding.
How can I reduce my risk for prostate cancer?
A healthy lifestyle can reduce the risk of prostate cancer. This includes regular exercise, a balanced diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables, abstaining from smoking and moderate alcohol consumption.
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