Oligometastatic prostate cancer (OMPC) represents an intermediate state in the progression from localized disease to widespread metastasis when the radiographically significant sites are limited in number and location. With no clear consensus on a definition, its diagnostic significance and associated optimal therapeutic approach remain controversial, posing a significant challenge for clinicians. The current standard of care for metastatic disease is to start systemic therapy; however, active surveillance and targeted radiotherapy have become attractive options to mitigate the long-term effects of androgen deprivation therapy (ADT). Furthermore, evolving biomarker methodologies may further define optimal treatment selection. In this review, we summarize the current understanding that guides the treatment of OMPC, with a focus on how host response can be an important contributing factor. Evolving scientific understanding and clinical development will continue to shape the landscape of treatment strategies for this distinct disease state.
Keywords: PSMA PET scan; androgen deprivation therapy; castration-resistant prostate cancer; focal therapy; metastasis-directed therapy; oligometastasis; oligometastatic disease; prostate cancer; radical prostatectomy; stereotactic body radiotherapy.