Recurrent prostate cancer

Recurrent Prostate Cancer is a condition where prostate cancer returns after initial treatment. This can occur in the prostate if the cancer was not entirely removed or destroyed during treatment, or it can occur in another part of the body if cancer cells spread. The recurrence can be local (in the prostate or close by), or distant (in another part of the body).

Causes

The primary cause of recurrent prostate cancer is the survival of cancer cells following initial treatment. These cells can remain dormant for years before becoming active again. Factors that may contribute to recurrence include the stage and grade of the original cancer, the type of treatment received, and individual genetic factors.

Symptoms

Symptoms of recurrent prostate cancer can vary depending on where the cancer has recurred. Local recurrence often presents similar symptoms to initial prostate cancer, such as difficulty urinating or blood in the urine. Distant recurrence can cause a variety of symptoms depending on the affected area, such as bone pain if the cancer has spread to the bones.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of recurrent prostate cancer often involves a combination of PSA testing, imaging tests such as MRI or CT scan, and potentially a biopsy. A rising PSA level can be an early sign of recurrence, but further testing is usually needed to confirm.

Treatment

Treatment options for recurrent prostate cancer depend on the location and extent of the recurrence, as well as the treatments previously used. Options may include surgery, radiation therapy, hormone therapy, chemotherapy, or a combination of these. Clinical trials of new treatments may also be an option.

Prognosis

The prognosis for recurrent prostate cancer varies widely and depends on many factors, including the location and extent of the recurrence, the treatments used, and individual patient factors. Some men with recurrent prostate cancer may live for many years with good quality of life, while others may have a more aggressive course of disease.

See also

• Prostate cancer
• Cancer recurrence
• PSA
• Prostate-specific antigen