| [ Summary ] |
The prevalence of prostate cancer in men on hemodialysis is equal to or higher than in the general population. Recently, it has been documented that mass screening with measurement of serum prostate specific antigen (PSA) may contribute to decreased prostate cancer-specific mortality rates. It is recommended we routinely perform PSA testing to detect early stage prostate cancer in men receiving hemodialysis. Although a variety of treatment options including prostatectomies, external beam radiation therapy, hormonal therapy, and active surveillance, for patients with early stage prostate cancer is considered, limited data exist in the literature to guide practitioners on treatment options. Because there is high morbidity associated with open surgery in patients on hemodialysis, most practitioners are likely to choose conservative therapy such as hormonal therapy and active surveillance. Patients with prostate cancer and receiving hemodialysis should be managed according to their individual health status, which is primarily driven by the severity of associated comorbid conditions. |