Enzalutamide, an androgen receptor inhibitor, demonstrated significant survival benefits in men with biochemically recurrent prostate cancer following initial treatment failure. The phase III trial tracked patients with rising PSA levels but no detectable metastases, representing an earlier intervention point than traditional hormone therapy protocols. This finding represents a meaningful shift in prostate cancer management paradigms. Previously, oncologists typically adopted a watch-and-wait approach during biochemical recurrence, reserving androgen deprivation therapy for visible metastatic disease. The survival advantage suggests that earlier hormonal intervention may prevent or delay cancer progression more effectively than delayed treatment strategies. For the approximately 30% of prostate cancer patients who experience biochemical recurrence, this could translate to years of additional life. However, the approach raises important quality-of-life considerations, as enzalutamide carries notable side effects including fatigue and cognitive impacts. The cost-benefit analysis becomes particularly relevant given the drug's expense and the potential for treating patients who might never develop symptomatic disease. This trial may establish biochemical recurrence as a new standard intervention point, fundamentally altering treatment timelines for thousands of men annually.
Enzalutamide Extends Survival in Early Prostate Cancer Recurrence
📄 Based on research published in New England Journal of Medicine
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