Prostatectomy for Prostate Cancer
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial explores the effectiveness of combining prostate removal surgery with antiandrogen therapy, with or without the chemotherapy drug docetaxel, for treating prostate cancer that has spread. Antiandrogen therapy reduces hormones that fuel cancer growth, while docetaxel stops cancer cells from growing. Men diagnosed with prostate cancer that has spread and have not yet received local treatments like radiation may be suitable for this study. As a Phase 2 trial, this research measures the treatment's effectiveness in an initial, smaller group of participants.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial information does not specify if you need to stop taking your current medications. However, if you are on chemotherapy or radiotherapy for non-prostate cancer treatment, you must not have received it within 3 weeks before joining the trial.
Is there any evidence suggesting that this trial's treatments are likely to be safe?
Research has shown that antiandrogen therapy is usually well-tolerated, though some patients might experience side effects such as diarrhea, hot flashes, or decreased sexual desire. Many patients experience a reduction in prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels, indicating the treatment's effectiveness.
Studies have found that docetaxel, a chemotherapy drug, can cause side effects like fever with low white blood cell counts, potentially leading to hospital stays. Despite this, it is considered effective for treating prostate cancer, and many patients tolerate it well.
Research on radical prostatectomy, the surgical removal of the prostate, suggests it is safe and practical, with few complications. This surgery is often recommended for prostate cancer and can reduce deaths specifically related to the cancer.
In summary, while each treatment can have side effects, they are generally manageable, and the treatments are effective against prostate cancer. Patients should always discuss any concerns or questions with a doctor.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial's treatments?
Researchers are excited about these treatments for prostate cancer because they combine antiandrogen therapy, docetaxel, and radical prostatectomy in a novel way. Most standard treatments for prostate cancer focus on either hormone therapy or surgery alone. However, this approach integrates hormone therapy with surgery and chemotherapy, potentially enhancing the effectiveness against the cancer. The use of docetaxel, a chemotherapy drug, before surgery is particularly intriguing, as it may shrink tumors and improve surgical outcomes. This comprehensive strategy could offer better control of the disease and improve overall survival rates for patients.
What evidence suggests that this trial's treatments could be effective for prostate cancer?
Research has shown that combining antiandrogen therapy with the drug docetaxel can improve outcomes for men with prostate cancer that has spread and still responds to hormones. In this trial, participants in Arm I will receive antiandrogen therapy with or without docetaxel, while those in Arm II will receive antiandrogen therapy, radical prostatectomy, and may receive docetaxel. Studies indicate that adding docetaxel to antiandrogen therapy significantly increases overall survival compared to using antiandrogen therapy alone, providing a 9% absolute benefit in remaining cancer-free for five years. Surgery to remove the prostate, known as radical prostatectomy, can also help reduce death rates from prostate cancer. The Scandinavian Prostate Cancer Study found an 11.7% decrease in deaths from prostate cancer with this surgery. Together, these treatments aim to control cancer growth and improve survival.46789
Who Is on the Research Team?
Isaac Kim, MD
Principal Investigator
Yale University
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
Men with newly diagnosed metastatic prostate cancer who have started or plan to start antiandrogen therapy within the last 6 months. They must not have had previous local treatments for prostate cancer, should be able to undergo surgery, and have a life expectancy of more than 6 months. Their blood counts and liver enzymes need to be at certain levels, and they must be physically well enough (ECOG status of 0 or 1).Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive antiandrogen therapy with or without docetaxel, and may undergo cytoreductive radical prostatectomy
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Antiandrogen Therapy
- Docetaxel
- Radical Prostatectomy
Antiandrogen Therapy is already approved in United States, European Union for the following indications:
- Prostate cancer
- Prostate cancer
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey
Lead Sponsor
Yale University
Lead Sponsor
National Cancer Institute (NCI)
Collaborator