An updated prostate cancer staging nomogram (Partin tables) based on cases from 2006 to 2011

Single-port robot-assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy: initial experience and technique with the da Vinci® SP platform

OBJECTIVES

To assess the safety and feasibility of the da Vinci^® SP (Intuitive Surgical, Sunnyvale, CA, USA) robotic platform for a consecutive series of patients who underwent single-port robot-assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy (SP-RALP).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

In all, 10 consecutive patients with biopsy confirmed prostate cancer underwent SP-RALP at our institution. Pre-, peri-, and postoperative data were prospectively collected for key outcomes including: estimated blood loss (EBL), operative time, postoperative pain requirements, duration of hospital stay, and complications.

RESULTS

The patients were aged 52-77 years with a body mass index of 24.4-36.7 kg/m² . Prostate volumes ranged from 26 to 136 mL, with a mean (sd) PSA (prostate specific antigen) level of 11.0 (10.6) ng/mL. Lymph node dissection was performed in four patients and nerve sparing in five. No intraoperative complications occurred, and no patients required conversion to an open approach. Total EBL was 20-150 mL, with a median (interquartile range [IQR]) console time of 189 (171-207) min and operative time of 234 (216-247) min. No patients were readmitted or required intervention. Urethral catheters were removed at a median (IQR) of 10 (8-11) days after surgery.

CONCLUSION

SP-RALP appears to be a safe and feasible approach to performing robotic radical prostatectomy. Long-term follow-up will be necessary to assess initial oncological and functional results.

Lymph Node Involvement in Treatment-Naïve Prostate Cancer Patients: Correlation of PSMA PET/CT Imaging and Roach Formula in 280 Men in Radiotherapeutic Management

The importance of prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA) PET/CT for primary staging of treatment-naïve prostate cancer patients is still under debate. Therefore, the present study aimed to evaluate the role of PSMA PET/CT in detecting nodal metastases in a large cohort of men and compare imaging results with the risk of lymph node involvement based on the Roach formula. Methods: In total, 280 men with newly diagnosed prostate carcinoma were included in the present study. For all patients, PSMA PET/CT was performed for primary staging. Median age was 67 y (range, 38-84 y), and 84% of all patients were classified as high-risk according to the d'Amico criteria. The risk of lymph node involvement was calculated using the Roach formula and compared with the PSMA PET/CT results. Results: PSMA-positive nodes were detected in 90 of 280 men (32.1%). Although most nodal metastases occurred within the pelvis, 36.0% were in extrapelvic sites. In 9 patients (3.2%), nodal metastases occurred in the Virchow node. After comparison of PSMA data with the results of the Roach formula, an area under the curve of 0.781 was obtained for the Roach predictions. Conclusion: For treatment-naïve prostate cancer patients, PSMA PET/CT is well suited for the detection of nodal metastases. However, the original Roach formula can still be used for a quick assessment of potential lymphatic spread in daily clinical routine.

Does the experience of the bedside assistant effect the results of robotic surgeons in the learning curve of robot assisted radical prostatectomy?

Introduction:

The success of the robot assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP) procedures depend on a successful team, however the literature focuses on the performance of a console surgeon. The aim of this study was to evaluate surgical outcomes of the surgeons during the learning curve in relation to the bedside assistant's experience level during RARP.

Materials and Methods:

We retrospectively reviewed two non - laparoscopic, beginner robotic surgeon's cases, and we divided the patients into two groups. The first surgeon completed the operations on 20 patients with a beginner bedside assistant in February - May 2009 (Group-1). The second surgeon completed operations on 16 patients with an experienced (at least 150 cases) bedside assistant in February 2015 - December 2015 (Group-2). The collected data included age, prostate volume, prostate specific antigen (PSA), estimated blood loss, complications and percent of positive surgical margins. In addition, the elapsed time for trocar insertion, robot docking, console surgery, specimen extraction and total anesthesia time were measured separately.

Results:

There were no significant differences between the groups in terms of age, comorbidity, prostate volume, PSA value, preoperative Gleason score, number of positive cores, postoperative Gleason score, pathological grade, protection rate of neurovascular bundles, surgical margin positivity, postoperative complications, length of hospital stay, or estimated blood loss. The robot docking, trocar placement, console surgery, anesthesia and specimen extraction times were significantly shorter in group 2 than they were in group 1 (17.75 ± 3.53 min vs. 30.20 ± 7.54 min, p ≤ 0.001; 9.63 ± 2.71 min vs. 14.40 ± 4.52 min, p = 0.001; 189.06 ± 27.70 min vs. 244.95 ± 80.58 min, p = 0.01; 230.94 ± 30.83 min vs. 306.75 ± 87.96 min, p = 0.002; 10.19 ± 2.54 min vs. 17.55 ± 8.79 min, p = 0.002; respectively).

Conclusion:

Although the bedside assistant's experience in RARP does not appear to influence the robotic surgeon's oncological outcomes during the learning curve, it may reduce the potential complications by shortening the total operation time.

Multiparametric MRI - local staging of prostate cancer and beyond

Background Accurate local staging is critical for treatment planning and prognosis in patients with prostate cancer (PCa). The primary aim is to differentiate between organ-confined and locally advanced disease with the latter carrying a worse clinical prognosis. Multiparametric MRI (mpMRI) is the imaging modality of choice for the local staging of PCa and has an incremental value in assessing pelvic nodal disease and bone involvement. It has shown superior performance compared to traditional staging based on clinical nomograms, and provides additional information on the site and extent of disease. MRI has a high specificity for diagnosing extracapsular extension (ECE), seminal vesicle invasion (SVI) and lymph node (LN) metastases, however, sensitivity remains poor. As a result, extended pelvic LN dissection remains the gold standard for assessing pelvic nodal involvement, and there has been recent progress in developing advanced imaging techniques for more distal staging. Conclusions T2W-weighted imaging is the cornerstone for local staging of PCa. Imaging at 3T and incorporating both diffusion weighted and dynamic contrast enhanced imaging can further increase accuracy. "Next generation" imaging including whole body MRI and PET-MRI imaging using prostate specific membrane antigen (68Ga-PSMA), has shown promising for assessment of LN and bone involvement as compared to the traditional work-up using bone scintigraphy and body CT.

A Rich Array of Prostate Cancer Molecular Biomarkers: Opportunities and Challenges

Prostate cancer is the most prevalent non-skin cancer in men and is the leading cause of cancer-related death. Early detection of prostate cancer is largely determined by a widely used prostate specific antigen (PSA) blood test and biopsy is performed for definitive diagnosis. Prostate cancer is asymptomatic in the early stage of the disease, comprises of diverse clinico-pathologic and progression features, and is characterized by a large subset of the indolent cancer type. Therefore, it is critical to develop an individualized approach for early detection, disease stratification (indolent vs. aggressive), and prediction of treatment response for prostate cancer. There has been remarkable progress in prostate cancer biomarker discovery, largely through advancements in genomic technologies. A rich array of prostate cancer diagnostic and prognostic tests has emerged for serum (4K, phi), urine (Progensa, T2-ERG, ExoDx, SelectMDx), and tumor tissue (ConfirmMDx, Prolaris, Oncoytype DX, Decipher). The development of these assays has created new opportunities for improving prostate cancer diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment decisions. While opening exciting opportunities, these developments also pose unique challenges in terms of selecting and incorporating these assays into the continuum of prostate cancer patient care.

Apparent diffusion coefficient in extraprostatic extension of prostate cancer: a systematic review and diagnostic meta-analysis

Objective: To evaluate the diagnostic performance of apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) for local staging of prostate cancer. Methods: Databases of Web of Science, MEDLINE (Ovid and PubMed), Cochrane Library, EMBASE, and Google Scholar were searched up to May 31, 2018, with language restricted to English. All studies concerning multiparametric magnet resonance imaging (mpMRI) with ADC for detection of extracapsular extension (ECE, T3a) and/or extraprostatic extension (EPE, overall stage of T3) were identified by two reviewers independently, and quality of included studies was evaluated using Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies-2 tool. True positive, false positive, false negative and true negative of each study were extracted to reconstruct the 2×2 tables for evaluating diagnostic accuracy. Summary estimates of sensitivity, specificity, and corresponding 95% CIs were calculated with bivariate model and hierarchical summary receiver operating characteristic model, then presented in forest plots. Multiple subgroup analyses and meta-regression were performed, and publication bias was evaluated with Deeks funnel. Results: A total of 18 studies were included, with 6 involved ECE and 12 for EPE. Pooled sensitivity was 80.5% (95% CI 76.5-83.9%) with specificity of 69.1% (95% CI 62.3-75.2%). Multiple subgroup analyses showed that if ADC and length of capsular contact are regarded as independent predictors, pooled sensitivity was 85% (95% CI 77-90%) and 81.1% (95% CI 76.0-85.3%), with specificity of 70.8% (95% CI 56.3-82.0%) and 66.6% (95% CI 57.6-74.5%), respectively. Meta-regression demonstrated that there was no substantially significant difference in types of coil, magnet field strength (1.5T versus 3.0T), and analysis method (per-lesion versus per-patient). Conclusion: By introducing ADC to MRI, we could obtain favorable sensitivity for diagnostic performance of EPE, but with a little decreased specificity.

Head-to-head comparison between multiparametric MRI, the partin tables, memorial sloan kettering cancer center nomogram, and CAPRA score in predicting extraprostatic cancer in patients undergoing radical prostatectomy

BACKGROUND

It is unclear whether clinical models including the Partin tables (PT), the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center nomogram (MSKCCn), and the cancer of the prostate risk assessment (CAPRA) can benefit from incorporating multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging (mpMRI) when staging prostate cancer (PCa).

PURPOSE

To compare the accuracy of clinical models, mpMRI, and mpMRI plus clinical models in predicting stage ≥pT3 of PCa.

STUDY TYPE

Prospective monocentric cohort study.

POPULATION

Seventy-three patients who underwent radical prostatectomy between 2016-2018.

FIELD STRENGTH/SEQUENCE

3.0T using turbo spin echo (TSE) imaging, single-shot echoplanar diffusion-weighted imaging, and T₁ -weighted high-resolution-isotropic-volume-examination (THRIVE) contrast-enhanced imaging.

ASSESSMENT

We calculated the probability of extraprostatic extension (EPE) using the PT and MSKCC, as well as the CAPRA score. Three readers with 2-8 years of experience in mpMRI independently staged PCa on imaging.

STATISTICAL TESTS

Receiver operating characteristics analysis and logistic regression analysis to investigate the per-patient accuracy of mpMRI vs. clinical models vs. mpMRI plus clinical models in predicting stage ≥pT3. The alpha level was 0.05.

RESULTS

Median probability for EPE and MSKCCn was 27.3% and 47.0%, respectively. Median CAPRA score was 3. Stage ≥pT3 occurred in 32.9% of patients. Areas under the curve (AUCs) were 0.62 for PT, 0.62 for MSKCCn, 0.64 for CAPRA, and 0.73-0.75 for mpMRI (readers 1-3) (P > 0.05 for all comparisons). Compared with mpMRI, the combination of mpMRI with PT or MSKCCn provided lower AUCs (P > 0.05 for all the readers), while the combination with CAPRA provided significantly higher (P < 0.05) AUCs in the case of readers 1 and 3. On multivariable analysis, mpMRI by reader 1 was the only independent predictor of stage ≥pT3 (odds ratio 7.40). DATA CONCLUSION: mpMRI was more accurate than clinical models and mpMRI plus clinical models in predicting stage ≥pT3, except for the combination of mpMRI and CAPRA in two out of three readers.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

2 Technical Efficacy: Stage 2 J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2019;50:1604-1613.

Grading of prostate cancer: a work in progress

Grading of prostate cancer has evolved substantially over time, not least because of major changes in diagnostic approach and concomitant shifts from late- to early-stage detection since the adoption of PSA testing from the late 1980s. After the conception of the architecture-based nine-tier Gleason grading system more than 50 years ago, several changes were made in order to increase its prognostic impact, to reduce interobserver variation and to improve concordance between prostate needle biopsy and radical prostatectomy grading. This eventually resulted in the current five-tier grading system, with a much more detailed description of the individual architectural patterns constituting the remaining three Gleason patterns (i.e. grades 3-5). Nevertheless, there is room for improvement. For instance, distinction of common grade 4 subpatterns such as ill-formed and fused glands from the grade 3 pattern is challenging, blurring the division between low-risk patients who could be eligible for deferred therapy and those who need curative therapy. The last few years have witnessed the publication of several studies on the prognostic impact of individual architectural subpatterns showing that, in particular, the cribriform pattern exceeded the prognostic impact of other grade 4 subpatterns. This review provides an overview of the changes in prostate cancer grading over time and provides a thorough description of the various Gleason subpatterns, the current evidence of their prognostic impact and areas of contention. Potential practical ways for improvements of the current grading system are also put forward.

Defining the incremental value of 3D T2-weighted imaging in the assessment of prostate cancer extracapsular extension

Objectives

To assess the added value of 3D T2-weighted imaging (T2WI) over conventional 2D T2WI in diagnosing extracapsular extension (ECE).

Methods

Seventy-five patients undergoing 3-T MRI before radical prostatectomy were included. PI-RADS ≥ 4 lesions were assessed for ECE on 2D T2W images using a 5-point Likert scale (1 = no ECE, 5 = definite ECE) and the length of tumour prostatic capsular contact. A second read using 3D T2W images and reformats evaluated ECE and the maximal 3D capsular contact length and surface.

Results

One hundred six lesions were identified at MRI. ECE was confirmed by histology in 54% (57/106) of lesions and 64% (48/75) of patients. Sensitivity and specificity for 3D T2 reads were 75.4% versus 64.9% (p = 0.058), respectively, and 83.7% versus 85.7% (p = 0.705) for 2D T2 reads, respectively. 3D T2W reads showed significantly higher mean subjective Likert scores of 3.7 ± 1.4 versus 3.3 ± 1.4 (p = 0.001) in ECE-positive lesions and lower mean Likert score of 1.5 ± 1 versus 1.6 ± 0.9 (p = 0.27) in ECE-negative lesions compared with 2D T2W reads. 3D contact significantly increased sensitivity from 59.6 to 73.7% (p = 0.03), whilst maintaining the same specificity of 87.8% (p = 1). High-grade group tumours (≥ Gleason 4 + 3) showed significantly higher ECE prevalence than low-grade tumours (88% versus 44%, p < 0.001) and a positive predictive value (PPV) for ECE of 90.9% with ≥ 5 mm of contact versus PPV of 90.4% at ≥ 12.5 mm for lower grade tumours.

Conclusions

3D T2WI significantly increases sensitivity and confidence in calling ECE. The capsular contact length threshold differed between low- and high-grade cancers.

Key Points

• 3D capsular contact length and 3D surface contact significantly increased sensitivity in diagnosing ECE.

• 3D T2W reads significantly increased reader confidence in calling ECE.

• Thresholds for capsular contact length differed between low-grade and high-grade cancers.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1007/s00330-019-06070-6) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Low PI-RADS assessment category excludes extraprostatic extension (≥pT3a) of prostate cancer: a histology-validated study including 301 operated patients

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate whether low PI-RADS v2 assessment categories are effective at excluding extraprostatic extension (EPE) of prostate cancer (≥pT3a PCa).

METHODS

The local institutional ethics committee approved this retrospective analysis of 301 consecutive PCa patients. Patients were classified as low- or intermediate/high-risk based on clinical parameters and underwent pre-surgical multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging. A PI-RADS v2 assessment category and ESUR EPE score were assigned for each lesion by two readers working in consensus. Histopathologic analysis of the whole-mount radical prostatectomy specimen was the reference standard. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to evaluate the association of PI-RADS v2 assessment category with final histology ≥pT3a PCa.

RESULTS

For a PI-RADS v2 assessment category threshold of 3, the overall performance for ruling out (sensitivity, negative predictive value, negative likelihood ratio) ≥pT3a PCa was 99%/98%/0.04 and was similar in both the low-risk (96%/97%/0.12; N = 137) and the intermediate/high-risk groups (100%/100%/0.0; N = 164). In univariate analysis, all clinical and tumor characteristics except age were significantly associated with ≥pT3a PCa. In multivariate analysis, PI-RADS v2 assessment categories ≤ 3 had a protective effect relative to categories 4 and 5. The inclusion of ESUR EPE score improved the AUC of ≥pT3a PCa prediction (from 0.73 to 0.86, p = 0.04 in the overall cohort). The impact of PI-RADS v2 assessment category is reflected in a nomogram derived on the basis of our cohort.

CONCLUSIONS

In our cohort, low PI-RADS v2 assessment categories of 3 or less confidently ruled out the presence of ≥pT3a PCa irrespective of clinical risk group.

KEY POINTS

• Our analysis of 301 mp-MRI and RARP specimens showed that the addition of PI-RADS v2 assessment categories to clinical parameters improves the exclusion of ≥pT3a (extraprostatic) prostate cancer. • PI-RADS v2 assessment categories of 1 to 3 are useful for excluding ≥pT3a prostate cancer with a NPV of 98%; such patients can be considered as candidates for less invasive approaches. • The ability to exclude ≥pT3a prostate cancer may improve confidence in choosing nerve-sparing surgery or in avoiding pelvic nodal dissections, and similarly for patients undergoing radiotherapy, in adopting short-course adjuvant hormonal therapy or foregoing prophylactic nodal irradiation.

Essential Updates in Grading, Morphotyping, Reporting, and Staging of Prostate Carcinoma for General Surgical Pathologists

CONTEXT.—

Within this decade, several important updates in prostate cancer have been presented through expert international consensus conferences and influential publications of tumor classification and staging.

OBJECTIVE.—

To present key updates in prostate carcinoma.

DATA SOURCES.—

The study comprised a review of literature and our experience from routine and consultation practices.

CONCLUSIONS.—

Grade groups, a compression of the Gleason system into clinically meaningful groups relevant in this era of active surveillance and multidisciplinary care management for prostate cancer, have been introduced. Refinements in the Gleason patterns notably result in the contemporarily defined Gleason score 6 cancers having a virtually indolent behavior. Grading of tertiary and minor higher-grade patterns in radical prostatectomy has been clarified. A new classification for prostatic neuroendocrine tumors has been promulgated, and intraductal, microcystic, and pleomorphic giant cell carcinomas have been officially recognized. Reporting the percentage of Gleason pattern 4 in Gleason score 7 cancers has been recommended, and data on the enhanced risk for worse prognosis of cribriform pattern are emerging. In reporting biopsies for active surveillance criteria-based protocols, we outline approaches in special situations, including variances in sampling or submission. The 8th American Joint Commission on Cancer TNM staging for prostate cancer has eliminated pT2 subcategorization and stresses the importance of nonanatomic factors in stage groupings and outcome prediction. As the clinical and pathology practices for prostate cancer continue to evolve, it is of utmost importance that surgical pathologists become fully aware of the new changes and challenges that impact their evaluation of prostatic specimens.

Precision prostate cancer surgery: an overview of new technologies and techniques

Over the past few years several new technologies have become available for the management of PCa. The implementation of robotic surgery allowed an unprecedented refinement of surgical techniques, and the RARP procedure is constantly evolving. Nowadays research is mainly focused towards a "tailored" case-specific surgical approach that might allow to achieve PCa control while preserving urinary continence and erectile function. Therefore, in contemporary urology era, several new tools have been introduced to optimize surgical planning, to aid surgical navigation, and to refine surgical execution. In this non-systematic review emerges that a better imaging technique in the preoperative setting can facilitate surgical planning. Moreover, in the intraoperative setting, new tools for image-guided surgical navigation are promising and will allow real time understanding of surgical anatomy. In the next future, a more personalized approach for the minimally invasive surgical treatment of PCa will be available, and the achievement of the best oncological and functional outcomes will be obtained.

Prostate Magnetic Resonance Imaging: Lesion Detection and Local Staging

Dramatic changes in the use of prostate magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) have occurred in the last decade. The recognition that MRI detects and localizes cancers with reasonable accuracy led to the development of directed biopsies. These image-guided biopsies have a higher sensitivity for clinically significant cancers and a lower sensitivity for indolent disease. Prospective trials provide level 1 evidence supporting the use of prostate MRI. For local staging, while the specificity of prostate MRI is high, its sensitivity is lacking for microscopic extraprostatic extension. Computer-aided diagnosis of prostate MRI promises to bring the diagnostic power of MRI to nonexpert readers and thus further integrate MRI into the diagnostic workup.

Adding multiparametric MRI to the MSKCC and Partin nomograms for primary prostate cancer: Improving local tumor staging?

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES

As a single diagnostic modality, multiparametric MRI (mpMRI) has imperfect accuracy to detect locally advanced prostate cancer (T-stages 3-4). In this study we evaluate if combining mpMRI with preoperative nomograms (Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center [MSKCC] and Partin) improves the prediction of locally advanced tumors.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Preoperative mpMRI results of 430 robot-assisted radical prostatectomy patients were analyzed. MSKCC and Partin nomogram scores predicting extraprostatic growth were calculated. Logistic regression analysis was performed, combining the nomogram prediction scores with mpMRI results. The diagnostic value of the combined models was evaluated by creating receiver operator characteristics curves and comparing the area under the curve (AUC).

RESULTS

mpMRI was a significant predictor of locally advanced disease in addition to both the MSKCC and Partin nomogram, despite its low sensitivity (45.3%). However, overall predictive accuracy increased by only 1% when mpMRI was added to the MSKCC nomogram (AUC MSKCC 0.73 vs MSKCC + mpMRI 0.74). Predictive accuracy for the Partin Tables increased 4% (AUC Partin 0.62 vs Partin + mpMRI 0.66).

CONCLUSION

The addition of mpMRI to the preoperative MSKCC and Partin nomograms did not increase diagnostic accuracy for the prediction of locally advanced prostate cancer.

Imaging as a Personalized Biomarker for Prostate Cancer Risk Stratification

Biomarkers provide objective data to guide clinicians in disease management. Prostate-specific antigen serves as a biomarker for screening of prostate cancer but has come under scrutiny for detection of clinically indolent disease. Multiple imaging techniques demonstrate promising results for diagnosing, staging, and determining definitive management of prostate cancer. One such modality, multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging (mpMRI), detects more clinically significant disease while missing lower volume and clinically insignificant disease. It also provides valuable information regarding tumor characteristics such as location and extraprostatic extension to guide surgical planning. Information from mpMRI may also help patients avoid unnecessary biopsies in the future. It can also be incorporated into targeted biopsies as well as following patients on active surveillance. Other novel techniques have also been developed to detect metastatic disease with advantages over traditional computer tomography and magnetic resonance imaging, which primarily rely on defined size criteria. These new techniques take advantage of underlying biological changes in prostate cancer tissue to identify metastatic disease. The purpose of this review is to present literature on imaging as a personalized biomarker for prostate cancer risk stratification.

RETRACTED: Recommandations françaises du Comité de Cancérologie de l’AFU – Actualisation 2018–2020 : cancer de la prostate French ccAFU guidelines – Update 2018–2020: Prostate cancer

This article has been retracted: please see Elsevier Policy on Article Withdrawal (http://www.elsevier.com/locate/withdrawalpolicy). Cet article est retiré de la publication à la demande des auteurs car ils ont apporté des modifications significatives sur des points scientifiques après la publication de la première version des recommandations. Le nouvel article est disponible à cette adresse: DOI:10.1016/j.purol.2019.01.007. C’est cette nouvelle version qui doit être utilisée pour citer l’article. This article has been retracted at the request of the authors, as it is not based on the definitive version of the text because some scientific data has been corrected since the first issue was published. The replacement has been published at the DOI:10.1016/j.purol.2019.01.007. That newer version of the text should be used when citing the article.

Radical prostatectomy performed via robotic, transperitoneal and extraperitoneoscopic approaches: functional and early oncological outcomes

Introduction

Oncological remission along with high postoperative functionality [continence and erectile function (EF)] are the main aspects of prostate cancer (PCa) treatment. The aim of this study was to compare functional and oncological treatment results achieved after a nerve-sparing radical prostatectomy (RP) via transperitoneal (TPRP), extraperitoneal (EPRP) and robot-assisted (RARP) approach.

Material and methods

From March 2015 to March 2016, 507 RP were performed at the Institute for Urology and Reproductive Health (Moscow, Russia). A total of 264 patients with localized (cТ1а–2с) prostate cancer [prostate-specific antigen (PSA) <20 ng/ml, Gleason score ≤7], intact prostate capsule (according to MRI), International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-5) ≥19 and a life expectancy >10 years were included into the retrospective study. All the surgeries were performed by a single surgeon. The outcomes were evaluated after urethral catheter removal and 3–6–12 months after RP.

Results

Nerve preservation (NP) was performed for 153 patients without significant distinctions in time (р = 0.064) and blood loss (р = 0.073). The International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire-Urinary Incontinence Short Form (ICIQ-SF) score was lower for NP: 9.23 ±6.59 and 3.86 ±5.38 after 3 and 12 months respectively compared with continence after RP without nerve preservation (NP): 14.27 ±5.1 vs. 6.15 ±4.76 (р <0.001). Continent was 52.2% vs. 83.3% vs. 81.8% in TPRP, RARP and EPRP groups; р <0.001. IIEF-5 scores were 14.67 ±9.4, 4.2 ±4.26 and 4.0 ±2.07 after RARP, TPRP and EPRP respectively (р = 0.002). After 12 months the PSA: TPRP = 0.11 ±0.19, RARP = 0.03 ±0.05 and EPRP = 0.53 ±1.87 ng/ml (р <0.001). Outcomes depend on surgical approach and was better in the RARP-group (AUC = 0.768 ±0.034 (CI 95% 0,701–0.834; р <0.001).

Conclusions

We suggest RARP with NP as a method of choice for treatment of prostate cancer in patients interested in preservation of EF and quality of life in general.

The Value of 99mTc-PSMA SPECT/CT-Guided Surgery for Identifying and Locating Lymph Node Metastasis in Prostate Cancer Patients

BACKGROUND

This study evaluated the effect of technetium-99m (^99mTc)-labeled prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA)-based image-guided surgery on the oncologic outcomes for patients with primary or recurrent prostate cancer (PCa).

METHODS

This study retrospectively analyzed 54 consecutive patients with PCa who underwent ^99mTc-labeled PSMA-based image-guided surgery between January 2016 and September 2017. These patients received a radical prostatectomy (RP) with pelvic lymph node dissection (PLND) or salvage lymph node dissection (sLND). The resected specimens were compared with findings of postoperative histologic analysis. The responses to the treatment were recorded during the follow-up period.

RESULTS

In 31 patients, PSMA single-photon emission computerized tomography (SPECT) and computed tomography (CT) could find 52 suspicious lymph node metastases (LNMs). With the help of PSMA SPECT/CT, 12 patients with recurrence received sLND, 19 primary PCa patients received RP with extended PLND, and 23 primary PCa patients received RP with standard PLND. The findings showed that PSMA SPECT/CT could detect LNMs with high sensitivity and specificity. In six patients, PSMA SPECT/CT could find more LNMs that were not found by MRI and help to modify the extent of lymphadenectomy. At the latest follow-up evaluation, 39 patients showed a biochemical response (BR), 9 patients showed a biochemical recurrence (BCR) after BR, and 6 patients never exhibited BR. The patients who received RP with standard PLND or extended PLND had a better prostate-specific antigen (PSA) response than the patients who received sLND. The patients with pelvic LNMs also had a better PSA response than the patients with retroperitoneal LNMs.

CONCLUSIONS

This study showed that ^99mTc-PSMA SPECT/CT-guided surgery can remove more LNMs than conventional imaging with high sensitivity and specificity and delay disease progression in PCa patients.

Improving risk stratification in a community-based African American population using cell cycle progression score

Background

Current clinical nomograms such as American Urological Association/National Comprehensive Cancer Network (AUA/NCCN) risk categories or CAPRA may not always reflect prostate cancer (PCa) risk among African American men. We evaluated the usefulness of adding a commercially available cell cycle progression (CCP) score to improve risk stratification in a community-based African American population.

Methods

Biopsy tissues from 150 African American and 60 Caucasian men were obtained from a single community urologic oncology practice in Memphis, TN. The biopsy samples were evaluated with a commercially available CCP panel (Prolaris). Clinical variables such as Gleason score, prostate-specific antigen (PSA), age, clinical stage, and extent of disease were combined to determine a single category of low-, intermediate-, or high-risk. AUA risk stratification for cancer aggressiveness was then compared between the CCP score vs. the clinical parameters to determine potential risk improvement by the CCP score.

Results

Based on the clinical parameters, of the 150 African American men evaluated, 20% were classified as low-risk, 40% were classified as intermediate-risk, and 40% were classified as high-risk. Of the 60 Caucasian men evaluated, 42% were low-risk, 42% were intermediate-risk, and 17% were high-risk. However, when re-evaluating the African American patients using the CCP score, 30% of the patients were determined to be more aggressive than the clinical low-risk category. Similarly, 21.67% of the patients were found to be more aggressive than the clinical intermediate-risk category, and 23.33% of the patients were more aggressive than the high-risk category. When compared to our Caucasian cohort, 12% of the low-risk patients, 8% of the intermediate-risk patients, and 10% of the high-risk patients were found to be more aggressive by the CCP score. Overall, 24% of African American men vs. 10% of Caucasian men were reclassified to a higher risk by CCP score. When we compared the mean CCP score in the African American population vs. the Caucasian population, the mean CCP score in the AUA low-risk was 3.2 vs. 2.9; 3.4 vs. 3.2 in the AUA intermediate-risk; and 3.8 vs. 3.5 in the AUA high-risk category, respectively. Despite the higher mean CCP score in the African American population, the difference between the African American men and the Caucasian men was not significant (P=0.064 for low-risk, P=0.204 for intermediate-risk, and P=0.209 for high-risk).

Conclusions

Our data extends the evidence that CCP score derived from a biopsy specimen can be clinically useful. Our findings showed that the CCP score could stratify 10-year mortality risk in African American men beyond the current clinicopathologic features, which may better prepare patients for follow-up visits and discussions with their health care provider(s) and enhance their ability to select the most appropriate treatment option.

A Novel Scoring System for Prediction of Prostate Cancer Based on Shear Wave Elastography and Clinical Parameters

OBJECTIVE

To develop a novel scoring system for the prediction of prostate cancer (PCa).

METHODS

We assessed 127 patients who underwent a prostate biopsy. Prior to biopsy, we performed shear wave elastography (SWE), transrectal ultrasound, digital rectal exam, total prostatic specific antigen, PSA density (PSAD), and free PSA/total PSA ratio (F/T). We developed an 11-point scoring system based on SWE and these clinical parameters.

RESULTS

PCa was diagnosed in 51 (40.2%) of 127 patients and 192 (25.2%) of 762 sextants on initial biopsy. ROC curve analyses showed that the cutoff value (COV) for SWE was 40.8 kpa at the sextant level. The AUC of score system based on the SWE and clinical parameters (0.911) was significantly different from scoring systems based on SWE alone (0.842) or clinical parameters alone (0.868). For this 11-point scoring system, the optimal COV, Youden index, sensitivity, specificity, PPV, NPV, and AUC were 3 points, 0.66, 76.5% 89.5%, 82.98%, 85.00%, and 0.911, respectively. There were 68 negative biopsy results in patients with 0-3 points, and the detection rate of PCa was 100% in patients with scores exceeding 6 points.

CONCLUSION

This 11-point scoring system based on SWE and clinical parameters has the good diagnostic performance for predicting PCa. It may be useful in selecting patients for biopsy, substantially reducing the number of unnecessary biopsies while ensuring that few cancers are missed.

Focal therapy for prostate cancer: concepts and future directions

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

To present a perspective on the current status and future directions of focal therapy for prostate cancer (PCa).

RECENT FINDINGS

Focal therapy for localized PCa is a rapidly evolving field. Various recent concepts - the index lesion driving prognosis, the enhanced detection of clinically significant PCa using multiparametric MRI and targeted biopsy, improved risk-stratification using novel blood/tissue biomarkers, the recognition that reducing radical treatment-related morbidity (along with reducing pathologic progression) is a clinically meaningful end-point - have all led to a growing interest in focal therapy. Novel focal therapy modalities are being investigated, mostly in phase 1 and 2 studies. Recently, level I prospective randomized data comparing partial gland ablation with a standard-of-care treatment became available from one study. Recent developments in imaging, including 7-T MRI, functional imaging, radiomics and contrast-enhanced ultrasound show early promise. We also discuss emerging concepts in patient selection for focal therapy.

SUMMARY

PCa focal therapy has evolved considerably in the recent few years. Overall, these novel focal therapy treatments demonstrate safety and feasibility, low treatment-related toxicity and acceptable short-term and in some cases medium-term oncologic outcomes. As imaging techniques evolve, patient selection, detection of clinically significant PCa and noninvasive assessment of therapeutic efficacy will be further optimized. The aspirational goal of achieving oncologic control while reducing radical treatment-related morbidity will drive further innovation in the field.

MEIS1 and MEIS2 Expression and Prostate Cancer Progression: A Role For HOXB13 Binding Partners in Metastatic Disease

Purpose: Germline mutations within the MEIS-interaction domain of HOXB13 have implicated a critical function for MEIS-HOX interactions in prostate cancer etiology and progression. The functional and predictive role of changes in MEIS expression within prostate tumor progression, however, remain largely unexplored.Experimental Design: Here we utilize RNA expression datasets, annotated tissue microarrays, and cell-based functional assays to investigate the role of MEIS1 and MEIS2 in prostate cancer and metastatic progression.Results: These analyses demonstrate a stepwise decrease in the expression of both MEIS1 and MEIS2 from benign epithelia, to primary tumor, to metastatic tissues. Positive expression of MEIS proteins in primary tumors, however, is associated with a lower hazard of clinical metastasis (HR = 0.28) after multivariable analysis. Pathway and gene set enrichment analyses identified MEIS-associated networks involved in cMYC signaling, cellular proliferation, motility, and local tumor environment. Depletion of MEIS1 and MEIS2 resulted in increased tumor growth over time in vivo, and decreased MEIS expression in both patient-derived tumors and MEIS-depleted cell lines was associated with increased expression of the protumorigenic genes cMYC and CD142, and decreased expression of AXIN2, FN1, ROCK1, SERPINE2, SNAI2, and TGFβ2.Conclusions: These data implicate a functional role for MEIS proteins in regulating cancer progression, and support a hypothesis whereby tumor expression of MEIS1 and MEIS2 expression confers a more indolent prostate cancer phenotype, with a decreased propensity for metastatic progression. Clin Cancer Res; 24(15); 3668-80. ©2018 AACR.

[Imaging in individualized uro-oncology]

The recent introduction of new diagnostic techniques has revolutionized uro-oncolgy. In addition to multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging (mpMRI), prostate-specific membrane antigen positron-emission tomography (PSMA-PET) plays an increasingly import role in daily practice. The introduction of three-dimensional (3D) printing technologies in the context of robot-assisted uro-oncological surgery represents a first step towards individualized 3D imaging. In the era of immunotherapy, imaging is challenged by new diagnostic criteria (iRECIST) and immune-related adverse effects.

External Validation of Models Predicting the Probability of Lymph Node Involvement in Prostate Cancer Patients

BACKGROUND

Multiple statistical models predicting lymph node involvement (LNI) in prostate cancer (PCa) exist to support clinical decision-making regarding extended pelvic lymph node dissection (ePLND).

OBJECTIVE

To validate models predicting LNI in Dutch PCa patients.

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS

Sixteen prediction models were validated using a patient cohort of 1001 men who underwent ePLND. Patient characteristics included serum prostate specific antigen (PSA), cT stage, primary and secondary Gleason scores, number of biopsy cores taken, and number of positive biopsy cores.

OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS AND STATISTICAL ANALYSIS

Model performance was assessed using the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC). Calibration plots were used to visualize over- or underestimation by the models.

RESULTS AND LIMITATIONS

LNI was identified in 276 patients (28%). Patients with LNI had higher PSA, higher primary Gleason pattern, higher Gleason score, higher number of nodes harvested, higher number of positive biopsy cores, and higher cT stage compared to patients without LNI. Predictions generated by the 2012 Briganti nomogram (AUC 0.76) and the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (MSKCC) web calculator (AUC 0.75) were the most accurate. Calibration had a decisive role in selecting the most accurate models because of overlapping confidence intervals for the AUCs. Underestimation of LNI probability in patients had a predicted probability of <20%. The omission of model updating was a limitation of the study.

CONCLUSIONS

Models predicting LNI in PCa patients were externally validated in a Dutch patient cohort. The 2012 Briganti and MSKCC nomograms were identified as the most accurate prediction models available.

PATIENT SUMMARY

In this report we looked at how well models were able to predict the risk of prostate cancer spreading to the pelvic lymph nodes. We found that two models performed similarly in predicting the most accurate probabilities.

Low dose rate prostate brachytherapy

Low dose rate (LDR) prostate brachytherapy is an evidence based radiation technique with excellent oncologic outcomes. By utilizing direct image guidance for radioactive source placement, LDR brachytherapy provides superior radiation dose escalation and conformality compared to external beam radiation therapy (EBRT). With this level of precision, late grade 3 or 4 genitourinary or gastrointestinal toxicity rates are typically between 1% and 4%. Furthermore, when performed as a same day surgical procedure, this technique provides a cost effective and convenient strategy. A large body of literature with robust follow-up has led multiple expert consensus groups to endorse the use of LDR brachytherapy as an appropriate management option for all risk groups of non-metastatic prostate cancer. LDR brachytherapy is often effective when delivered as a monotherapy, although for some patients with intermediate or high-risk disease, optimal outcome are achieved in combination with supplemental EBRT and/or androgen deprivation therapy (ADT). In addition to reviewing technical aspects and reported clinical outcomes of LDR prostate brachytherapy, this article will focus on the considerations related to appropriate patient selection and other aspects of its use in the treatment of prostate cancer.

One-Stop-Shop Whole-Body 68Ga-PSMA-11 PET/MRI Compared with Clinical Nomograms for Preoperative T and N Staging of High-Risk Prostate Cancer

Our aim was to assess the diagnostic potential of 1-stop-shop prostate-specific membrane antigen ligand (⁶⁸Ga-PSMA-11) PET/MRI compared with preoperative staging nomograms in patients with high-risk prostate cancer. Methods: A total of 102 patients underwent ⁶⁸Ga-PSMA-11 PET/MRI before intended radical prostatectomy with lymph node dissection. Preoperative variables determined the probabilities for lymph node metastases (LNM), extracapsular extension (ECE), and seminal vesical involvement (SVI) using the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (MSKCC) nomogram and Partin tables. Receiver-operating-characteristic analyses were performed to determine best discriminatory cutoffs. On a cohort basis, positivity rates of imaging and nomograms were compared with pathologic prevalence. On a patient basis, sensitivity, specificity, and area under the curves were calculated. Finally, the full concordance of each method to postoperative T and N stage was determined. Results: Seventy-three patients were finally analyzed. On a cohort basis, the MSKCC nomogram (39.7%) positivity rate was most concordant with pathologic prevalence for LNM (34.3%) compared with Partin tables (14.1%) and imaging (20.6%). Prevalence of ECE (72.6%) was best predicted by MSKCC nomograms and imaging (83.6% each), compared with Partin tables (38.4%). For prevalence of SVI (45.2%), imaging (47.9%) performed superior to MSKCC (37.6%) and Partin tables (19.3%). On a patient basis, AUCs for LNM, ECE, and SVI did not differ significantly between tests (P > 0.05). Imaging revealed a high specificity (100%) for LNM and a sensitivity (60%) comparable to the MSKCC nomogram (68%) and Partin tables (60%). For ECE, imaging revealed the highest sensitivity (94.3%) compared with the MSKCC nomogram (66%) and Partin tables (71.1%). For SVI, sensitivity and specificity of imaging and the MSKCC nomogram were comparable (81.5% and 80% vs. 87.9% and 75%). The rate of concordance to the final pTN stage was 60.3% for imaging, 52.1% for the MSKCC nomogram, and 39.7% for Partin tables. Conclusion: In our analysis, preoperative 1-stop-shop ⁶⁸Ga-PSMA-11 PET/MRI performs at least equally for T and N stage prediction compared with nomograms in high-risk prostate cancer patients. Despite an improved prediction of the full final stage and the yield of additional anatomic information, the use of ⁶⁸Ga-PSMA-11 PET/MRI warrants further prospective evaluation.

Prediction models for prostate cancer outcomes: what is the state of the art in 2017?

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Prostate cancer (PCa) remains a significant public health burden, with multiple points for decision-making at all stages of the disease. Given the amount and variety of data that may influence disease management, prediction models have been published to assist clinicians and patients in making decisions about the best next course of action at many disease states. We sought to review the most important studies related to PCa prediction models since 2016 and evaluate their impact upon the evolving field of risk modeling in PCa.

RECENT FINDINGS

There has been a significant amount of work published in the past year concerning risk modeling in PCa at all stages of disease, ranging from screening to predicting survival with metastatic disease. The majority of recent publications focus upon the addition of a new biomarker to prediction models or upon validating previously published prediction models. In particular, MRI has been the topic of a number of more recent studies.

SUMMARY

Prediction modeling in PCa currently compares the area under the receiver operating curve between models with and without the biomarker of interest to predict the outcome of interest in multiple disease states, ranging from diagnosis to prediction of survival with metastatic disease. Future work should provide additional information regarding clinical impact and measures of prediction confidence.

Local staging with multiparametric MRI in daily clinical practice: diagnostic accuracy and evaluation of a radiologic learning curve

PURPOSE

To estimate the diagnostic accuracy of multiparametric MRI (mpMRI) for the detection of locally advanced prostate cancer (T-stage 3-4) prior to radical prostatectomy, in a multicenter cohort representing daily clinical practice. In addition, the radiologic learning curve for the detection of locally advanced disease is evaluated.

METHODS

Preoperative mpMRI findings of 430 patients (2012-2016) were compared to pathology results following radical prostatectomy. The diagnostic accuracy (sensitivity, specificity, PPV, and NPV) for the detection of locally advanced disease was calculated and compared for all years separately, to evaluate the presence of a radiological learning curve.

RESULTS

Of all 137 patients with locally advanced disease, 62 patients were preoperatively detected with mpMRI [sensitivity 45.3% (95% CI 36.9-53.6%), specificity 75.8% (CI 70.9-80.7%), PPV 46.6% (CI 38.1-55.1%), and NPV 74.7% (CI 69.8-79.7%)]. The diagnostic accuracy did not improve significantly over time (sensitivity p = 0.12; specificity p = 0.57).

CONCLUSIONS

In daily clinical practice, the diagnostic accuracy of mpMRI for the detection of locally advanced prostate cancer remains limited. It, therefore, seems questionable whether mpMRI is adequate to guide preoperative decision-making. No significant radiologic learning curve for the detection of locally advance disease was observed.

Saudi Oncology Society and Saudi Urology Association combined clinical management guidelines for prostate cancer 2017

This is an update to the previously published Saudi guidelines for the evaluation and medical and surgical management of patients diagnosed with prostate cancer. Prostate cancer is categorized according to the stage of the disease using the tumor node metastasis staging system 7^th edition. The guidelines are presented with supporting evidence levels based on a comprehensive literature review, several internationally recognized guidelines, and the collective expertise of the guidelines committee members (authors) who were selected by the Saudi Oncology Society and Saudi Urological Association. Local factors, such as availability, logistic feasibility, and familiarity of various treatment modalities, have been taken into consideration. These guidelines should serve as a roadmap for the urologists, oncologists, general physicians, support groups, and health-care policymakers in the management of patients diagnosed with adenocarcinoma of the prostate.

ACR Appropriateness Criteria® Prostate Cancer-Pretreatment Detection, Surveillance, and Staging

Despite the frequent statement that "most men die with prostate cancer, not of it," the reality is that prostate cancer is second only to lung cancer as a cause of death from malignancy in American men. The primary goal during baseline evaluation of prostate cancer is disease characterization, that is, establishing disease presence, extent (local and distant), and aggressiveness. Prostate cancer is usually diagnosed after the finding of a suspicious serum prostate-specific antigen level or digital rectal examination. Tissue diagnosis may be obtained by transrectal ultrasound-guided biopsy or MRI-targeted biopsy. The latter requires a preliminary multiparametric MRI, which has emerged as a powerful and relatively accurate tool for the local evaluation of prostate cancer over the last few decades. Bone scintigraphy and CT are primarily used to detect bone and nodal metastases in patients found to have intermediate- or high-risk disease at biopsy. The American College of Radiology Appropriateness Criteria are evidence-based guidelines for specific clinical conditions that are reviewed annually by a multidisciplinary expert panel. The guideline development and revision include an extensive analysis of current medical literature from peer reviewed journals and the application of well-established methodologies (RAND/UCLA Appropriateness Method and Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation or GRADE) to rate the appropriateness of imaging and treatment procedures for specific clinical scenarios. In those instances where evidence is lacking or equivocal, expert opinion may supplement the available evidence to recommend imaging or treatment.