Advances in Diagnosis and Management of Prostate Cancer

A special issue of Diagnostics (ISSN 2075-4418). This special issue belongs to the section "Pathology and Molecular Diagnostics".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (31 August 2023) | Viewed by 10301

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Guest Editor
Department of Urology, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria SS. Antonio e Biagio e Cesare Arrigo, Alessandria, Italy
Interests: reconstructive urology; urologic oncology; prostate cancer
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Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Prostate cancer (PCa) is the second most commonly diagnosed cancer in men worldwide. The aggressiveness of tumors varies, ranging from non-aggressive tumors, which can be safely monitored, to tumors with a poor prognosis, which are only suited to palliative treatment.

Currently, screening for PCa remains one of the most controversial topics in the urological literature. It is recommended to offer early PSA testing to well-informed men at elevated risk of PCa (from 50 years of age; from 45 years of age and a family history of PCa; in men of African descent from 45 years of age if of African descent; from 40 years of age if carrying BRCA2 mutations). However, an individualized risk-adapted strategy for early detection may still be associated with a substantial risk of over-diagnosis. It is therefore essential to further “tune-up” criteria for opportunistic or systematic screening programs.

Many knowledge gaps are still present in the current literature in the setting of early detection. For example, it remains unclear when germline genetic testing should be considered, and how this may impact disease management. Similarly, limited data are available on urine, serum, as well as tissue-based biomarkers.

Imaging in prostate cancer offers many research opportunities. For example, new sonographic modalities such as micro-Doppler, sono-elastography contrast-enhanced US or high-resolution micro-US have provided promising preliminary findings, and are gaining increasing interest. Moreover, despite its clear role in BCR and in the initial staging of patients with high-risk and very-high-risk diseases, studies are needed to assess the role of PSMA PET/CT as an alternative to ePLND for nodal staging, and for the initial staging of intermediate-risk patients.

Finally, in the context of prostate cancer diagnosis, the role of machine learning and artificial intelligence (AI) in the identification of suspicious areas in a prostate MRI, and in assigning a Gleason Score at pathology, is still under debate.

In the context of treatment, we have many unanswered questions.

Radical prostatectomy and external beam radiotherapy represent the first line treatment options for patients with localized PCa. However, promising results have been reported with new investigational therapies. Focal therapies, for example, can be used to ablate tumors selectively while limiting toxicity by sparing the neurovascular bundles, sphincter, and urethra.

Further, several newer forms of hormonal therapy have been developed in recent years, and have been proved to be effective in high-risk cases or when PCa has become resistant to standard forms of hormonal therapy. Finally, PARP inhibitors, checkpoint inhibitors, vaccines, and targeted therapies represent novel, promising treatment options for advanced PCa.

The aim of this Special Issue of Diagnostics is to provide new insights into the diagnosis and management of prostate cancer.

Dr. Francesco Chierigo
Guest Editor

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Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Diagnostics is an international peer-reviewed open access semimonthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2600 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • prostate cancer
  • screening
  • biomarkers
  • genetic testing
  • imaging
  • PSMA
  • artificial intelligence
  • radical prostatectomy
  • radiotherapy
  • hormonal therapies

Published Papers (5 papers)

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Research

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11 pages, 1590 KiB  
Article
Increased Risk of Benign Prostate Hyperplasia (BPH) in Patients with Gout: A Longitudinal Follow-Up Study Using a National Health Screening Cohort
by Woo Jin Bang, Hyo Geun Choi, Ho Suk Kang, Mi Jung Kwon, Ji Hee Kim, Joo-Hee Kim and So Young Kim
Diagnostics 2024, 14(1), 55; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics14010055 - 26 Dec 2023
Viewed by 1215
Abstract
A previous study reported a high risk of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) in patients with gout. This study intended to evaluate the risk of BPH in gout patients. A total of 514,866 Korean National Health Insurance Service—Health Screening Cohorts were retrieved from 2002 [...] Read more.
A previous study reported a high risk of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) in patients with gout. This study intended to evaluate the risk of BPH in gout patients. A total of 514,866 Korean National Health Insurance Service—Health Screening Cohorts were retrieved from 2002 to 2019. Among these individuals, 14,961 gout patients and 58,764 control participants were matched based on demographic factors. The incidence of BPH during the follow-up periods was collected for both the gout and control groups. The risk of BPH was analyzed using stratified Cox proportional hazard models, and hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated. Secondary analyses were conducted based on demographic factors and comorbidities. The incidence of BPH was 23.40% in gout patients and 20.70% in control participants. In the adjusted model, the HR of BPH was 1.13-fold higher in gout patients than in the control group (95% CI = 1.09–1.18). Compared with the ≥60-year-old group, the <60-year-old group demonstrated a higher HR for BPH in gout patients (1.19 [1.13–1.24] vs. 1.07 [1.01–1.13]). The risk of BPH in gout patients was consistent according to various comorbidities. Patients with gout demonstrated a greater risk of BPH than participants without gout. The young adult population had a higher risk of BPH related to gout. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Diagnosis and Management of Prostate Cancer)
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10 pages, 1491 KiB  
Article
Are Urologists Ready for Interpretation of Multiparametric MRI Findings? A Prospective Multicentric Evaluation
by Guglielmo Mantica, Nazareno Suardi, Salvatore Smelzo, Francesco Esperto, Francesco Chierigo, Stefano Tappero, Marco Borghesi, Roberto La Rocca, Marco Oderda, Marco Ennas, Armando Stabile, Francesco De Cobelli, Luigi Napolitano, Rocco Papalia, Paolo Gontero, Carlo Introini, Alberto Briganti, Roberto M. Scarpa, Vincenzo Mirone, Francesco Montorsi, Franco Gaboardi, Carlo Terrone and Gianpiero Cardoneadd Show full author list remove Hide full author list
Diagnostics 2022, 12(11), 2656; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics12112656 - 1 Nov 2022
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1145
Abstract
Aim: To assess urologists’ proficiency in the interpretation of multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging (mpMRI). Materials and Methods: Twelve mpMRIs were shown to 73 urologists from seven Italian institutions. Responders were asked to identify the site of the suspicious nodule (SN) but not to [...] Read more.
Aim: To assess urologists’ proficiency in the interpretation of multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging (mpMRI). Materials and Methods: Twelve mpMRIs were shown to 73 urologists from seven Italian institutions. Responders were asked to identify the site of the suspicious nodule (SN) but not to assign a PIRADS score. We set an a priori cut-off of 75% correct identification of SN as a threshold for proficiency in mpMRI reading. Data were analyzed according to urologists’ hierarchy (UH; resident vs. consultant) and previous experience in fusion prostate biopsies (E-fPB, defined as <125 vs. ≥125). Additionally, we tested for differences between non-proficient vs. proficient mpMRI readers. Multivariable logistic regression analyses (MVLRA) tested potential predictors of proficiency in mpMRI reading. Results: The median (IQR) number of correct identifications was 8 (6–8). Anterior nodules (number 3, 4 and 6) represented the most likely prone to misinterpretation. Overall, 34 (47%) participants achieved the 75% cut-off. When comparing consultants vs. residents, we found no differences in terms of E-fPB (p = 0.9) or in correct identification rates (p = 0.6). We recorded higher identification rates in urologists with E-fBP vs. their no E-fBP counterparts (75% vs. 67%, p = 0.004). At MVLRA, only E- fPB reached the status of independent predictor of proficiency in mpMRI reading (OR: 3.4, 95% CI 1.2–9.9, p = 0.02) after adjusting for UH and type of institution. Conclusions: Despite urologists becoming more familiar with interpretation of mpMRI, their results are still far from proficient. E-fPB enhances the proficiency in mpMRI interpretation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Diagnosis and Management of Prostate Cancer)
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Review

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15 pages, 335 KiB  
Review
Biomarkers for Prostate Cancer: From Diagnosis to Treatment
by Jia-Yan Chen, Pei-Yan Wang, Ming-Zhu Liu, Feng Lyu, Ming-Wei Ma, Xue-Ying Ren and Xian-Shu Gao
Diagnostics 2023, 13(21), 3350; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics13213350 - 31 Oct 2023
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 3370
Abstract
Prostate cancer (PCa) is a widespread malignancy with global significance, which substantially affects cancer-related mortality. Its spectrum varies widely, from slow-progressing cases to aggressive or even lethal forms. Effective patient stratification into risk groups is crucial to therapeutic decisions and clinical trials. This [...] Read more.
Prostate cancer (PCa) is a widespread malignancy with global significance, which substantially affects cancer-related mortality. Its spectrum varies widely, from slow-progressing cases to aggressive or even lethal forms. Effective patient stratification into risk groups is crucial to therapeutic decisions and clinical trials. This review examines a wide range of diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers, several of which are integrated into clinical guidelines, such as the PHI, the 4K score, PCA3, Decipher, and Prolaris. It also explores the emergence of novel biomarkers supported by robust preclinical evidence, including urinary miRNAs and isoprostanes. Genetic alterations frequently identified in PCa, including BRCA1/BRCA2, ETS gene fusions, and AR changes, are also discussed, offering insights into risk assessment and precision treatment strategies. By evaluating the latest developments and applications of PCa biomarkers, this review contributes to an enhanced understanding of their role in disease management. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Diagnosis and Management of Prostate Cancer)
15 pages, 2410 KiB  
Review
Recurrent Prostate Cancer Diagnostics with 18F-PSMA-1007 PET/CT: A Systematic Review of the Current State
by Laura Saule, Maija Radzina, Mara Liepa, Lilita Roznere, Andrejs Lioznovs, Madara Ratniece, Edgars Mamis and Egils Vjaters
Diagnostics 2022, 12(12), 3176; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics12123176 - 15 Dec 2022
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 1888
Abstract
Background: Early diagnosis of recurrent prostate cancer is a cornerstone for further adequate therapy planning. Therefore, clinical practice and research still focuses on diagnostic tools that can detect prostate cancer in early recurrence when it is undetectable in conventional diagnostic imaging. 18F-PSMA-1007 [...] Read more.
Background: Early diagnosis of recurrent prostate cancer is a cornerstone for further adequate therapy planning. Therefore, clinical practice and research still focuses on diagnostic tools that can detect prostate cancer in early recurrence when it is undetectable in conventional diagnostic imaging. 18F-PSMA-1007 PET/CT is a novel method to evaluate patients with biochemical recurrent PCa. The aim of this review was to evaluate the role of 18F-PSMA-1007 PET/CT in prostate cancer local recurrence, lymph node metastases and bone metastases detection. Methods: Original studies, reviews and five meta-analyses were included in this article. A total of 70 studies were retrieved, 31 were included in the study. Results: All patients described in the studies underwent 18F-PSMA-1007 PET/CT. The administered 18F-PSMA-1007 individual dose ranged from 159 ± 31 MBq to 363.93 ± 69.40 MBq. Results showed that 18F-PSMA-1007 PET/CT demonstrates a good detection rate in recurrent prostate cancer. Conclusions: 18F-PSMA-1007 PET/CT appears to achieve reliable performance in detecting recurrent prostate cancer. The high detection rate of 18F-PSMA-1007 PET/CT in recurrent prostate cancer was confirmed, especially in local recurrence and small lymph nodes with non-specific characteristics on conventional diagnostic imaging methods. However, several authors emphasize some limitations for this tracer—for example, non-specific uptake in bone lesions that can mimic bone metastases. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Diagnosis and Management of Prostate Cancer)
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Other

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6 pages, 1128 KiB  
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Prostate Cancer after Percutaneous Arterial Embolization of the Prostate: A Case Report
by Ying-Chieh Chang, Szu-Ju Chen, Wei-Hsuan Huang, Chi-Ping Huang, Yung-Hsiang Chen and Wen-Chi Chen
Diagnostics 2022, 12(10), 2378; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics12102378 - 30 Sep 2022
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Abstract
We report a patient with prostate cancer found 2 years after percutaneous arterial embolization (PAE) of the prostate with a rapid increase in prostate specific antigen (PSA) 3 months later, even though the initial result was low. He did not consult a urologist [...] Read more.
We report a patient with prostate cancer found 2 years after percutaneous arterial embolization (PAE) of the prostate with a rapid increase in prostate specific antigen (PSA) 3 months later, even though the initial result was low. He did not consult a urologist during or after PAE until acute urinary retention developed. The clinical stage was cT2cN1M1b with Gleason grade 5 + 5 = 10. An increase in PSA a short interval after PAE may suggest the presence of prostate cancer. We suggest that patients undergoing PAE should consult a urologist, and that PSA levels should be checked every 3 months in the first year after PSA. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Diagnosis and Management of Prostate Cancer)
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