March Net Guide: Prostate Cancer

//THE ONLINE ONCOLOGIST™

Study Backs Diagnostic Test

While optimum management of clinically localized prostate cancer is challenging because of the highly variable and often indolent natural history of the disease, a new study shows that the Myriad Genetics’ 46-gene Prolaris™ molecular diagnostic test can significantly predict its outcome. The study found a patient’s cell cycle progression (CCP) score is a strong indicator of the risk of recurrence and death. It may also play a part in determining appropriate treatment.

“Prognostic value of an RNA expression signature derived from cell cycle proliferation genes in patients with prostate cancer: a retrospective study” was published early online in The Lancet Oncology on February 9. Online Oncologist

//THE EDUCATED PATIENT™

Straight Talk From a Urologist

Gerald Chodak, MD, director of the Midwest Prostate and Urology Health Center in Michiana Shores, Indiana, offers a site devoted to prostate health and cancer prevention. His straightforward videos provide useful information about diagnosis, treatment, and management of prostate cancer.

From dealing with the side effects of cancer treatment to putting the findings of clinical studies in perspective, Chodak supplies a wealth of information clearly and concisely. No bells and whistles, just the facts. Educated Patient - Prostate Videos

//JOURNAL HIGHLIGHT™

Early Baldness as Indicator

Men who begin losing their hair by age 20 are twice as likely to develop prostate cancer later in life, according to a study of 669 people. The conclusion appears to contradict previous research, which found early baldness to be protective against prostate cancer. The fi ndings, published online February 15 in the Annals of Oncology, could help identify men who should be screened early and more often for disease, researchers said.

Prostate cancer is the most common nonskin cancer among men worldwide. Most cases occur among men in their 60s. Journal Highlight

//ONLINE CME

Paraneoplastic Syndromes in Prostate Cancer

CREDITS: 1.25

FEE: None

EXPIRES: Dec. 8, 2011

Intended for primary care physicians, urologists, oncologists, and other physicians who care for patients with prostate cancer, this activity focuses on the effective diagnosis and treatment of paraneoplastic syndromes.

Paraneoplastic syndromes constitute a variety of conditions caused by a malignancy but not directly attributable to it. The medical literature describes about 100 cases associated with prostate cancer, including endocrine manifestations, neurological entities, and dermatological conditions. Recognition of these syndromes is clinically important because it might lead to the detection of underlying malignancy and impact on the treatment options available.

Participants will learn to evaluate the clinical presentation of paraneoplastic syndromes; identify the most common paraneoplastic syndromes associated with prostate cancer and construct an appropriate diagnostic evaluation; and distinguish the best management for paraneoplastic syndromes. Paraneoplastic Syndromes in Prostate Cancer

//CLINICAL TRIAL

Valproic Acid in Treating Patients With Progressive, Non-Metastatic Prostate Cancer

STUDY TYPE: Interventional

AGE/SEX REQUIREMENTS: 18 to 85 years (men)

SPONSOR: Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center

CLINICALTRIALS.GOV IDENTIFIER: NCT00670046

PURPOSE: Valproic acid may stop the growth of tumor cells by blocking some of the enzymes needed for cell growth. But it is not known whether valproic acid is more effective than observation in treating patients with prostate cancer. This randomized phase II trial will study how well valproic acid works in treating men with progressive, nonmetastatic prostate cancer. It will attempt to assess whether treatment with valproic acid, a type I histone deacetylase inhibitor, can alter the kinetics of prostate-specific antigen progression. Clinical Trial