Hormone refractory
What is Hormone Refractory Prostate Cancer?
Hormone refractory prostate cancer (HRPC), also known as androgen-independent prostate cancer, occurs when prostate cancer cells become resistant to hormone treatments (androgens) such as testosterone, which can be used to reduce tumor growth. It is the most advanced form of prostate cancer and is typically considered incurable, as current treatments are largely unsuccessful in controlling the growth of the cancer cells. Despite this grim diagnosis, studies have found that advanced-stage hormone refractory prostate cancer can still be treated with effective anti-cancer therapies.
Hormone refractory prostate cancer can be caused by a number of factors, including genetic mutations, changes in hormone levels, and the development of drug resistance. In some cases, the tumor may be resistant to the initial hormone treatments as well. There are several treatment options available for HRPC, including surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, and hormonal therapy. However, these treatments are often unsuccessful in completely eradicating the cancer, and some tumors may become resistant to these therapies.
Signs and Symptoms of Hormone Refractory Prostate Cancer
The signs and symptoms of hormone refractory prostate cancer are often similar to those of other forms of prostate cancer, such as:
- Frequent urination
- Difficulty starting and stopping the flow of urine
- Painful urination
- Weak or interrupted urine stream
- Blood in the urine
- Painful ejaculation
- Swollen lymph nodes in the groin
As the cancer progresses, symptoms can become more extreme as the tumor spreads throughout the body. These symptoms can include fever, bone pain, and weight loss.
Diagnosis and Treatment of Hormone Refractory Prostate Cancer
The diagnosis of HRPC begins with a physical exam and a digital rectal exam. The doctor will also order tests to measure the level of PSA in the blood, as well as imaging tests such as MRI and CT scans to assess the tumor’s extent. Biopsies may also be done to further examine the cancer cells.
There are several treatment options available for HRPC, including surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, and hormonal therapy. However, these treatments are often unsuccessful in completely eradicating the cancer, and some tumors may become resistant to these therapies. In these cases, clinical trials may offer experimental therapies that could provide some improvement in symptoms or tumor shrinkage.
Hormone refractory prostate cancer is a difficult disease to treat, but it is important to remember that it is still possible to manage the disease. Progress in the field of cancer research means that new therapies for HRPC are continually being developed, offering greater hope to those affected by this advanced form of prostate cancer.