Prostate Specific Antigen in Advanced Prostate Cancer
Author Information
Author(s): S.D. Fossa, H. Waehre, E. Paus
Primary Institution: The Norwegian Radium Hospital
Hypothesis
What is the prognostic significance of prostate specific antigen (PSA) in metastatic hormone-resistant prostate cancer?
Conclusion
Serum PSA levels do not predict survival in hormone-resistant prostate cancer, even though they are correlated with some clinical parameters.
Supporting Evidence
- 18% of patients had normal PSA levels despite advanced disease.
- PSA levels were correlated with bone scan involvement and hemoglobin levels.
- PSA did not provide additional predictive value for survival when combined with other clinical parameters.
Takeaway
This study found that some men with advanced prostate cancer had normal PSA levels, which doesn't help doctors predict how long they will live.
Methodology
The study analyzed 152 patients referred for treatment, measuring PSA levels and correlating them with survival and other clinical parameters.
Limitations
The study did not track PSA levels prior to referral, limiting the ability to assess changes over time.
Participant Demographics
Patients were predominantly elderly men with advanced prostate cancer and distant metastases.
Statistical Information
P-Value
<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
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