Androgen-deprivation-therapy-induced fractures in men with nonmetastatic prostate cancer: what do we really know?

Nat Clin Pract Urol. 2008 Jan;5(1):24-34. doi: 10.1038/ncpuro0995.

Abstract

Androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) alone or in combination with radiation therapy or other drugs is increasingly used for the treatment of localized, high-risk, or biochemical relapse of prostate cancer (PC). Bone mineral density (BMD) loss is rapid during the first year of ADT; up to 4.6% of total hip, femoral neck, and lumbar spine BMD loss has been reported in PC patients without bone metastases (nonmetastatic PC). In prospective studies, concurrent administration of a bisphosphonate or selective estrogen receptor modulator stabilized or increased BMD. Results of retrospective studies of ADT-treated patients who did not receive antiresorptive therapy have demonstrated a 21-37% increase in fracture risk. Because of the documented bone loss and increased fracture risk, patients should receive adequate counseling, monitoring, and therapy aimed at preventing or treating ADT-induced bone loss. Future studies should address the long-term impact of antiresorptive therapy on actual fracture rate and the impact on quality of life and healthcare costs.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Androgen Antagonists / adverse effects*
  • Androgen Antagonists / therapeutic use
  • Bone Density / drug effects*
  • Diphosphonates / pharmacology
  • Estrogens / pharmacology
  • Fractures, Bone / epidemiology
  • Fractures, Bone / etiology*
  • Fractures, Bone / prevention & control
  • Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone / agonists
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Orchiectomy / adverse effects*
  • Prevalence
  • Prostatic Neoplasms / therapy*

Substances

  • Androgen Antagonists
  • Diphosphonates
  • Estrogens
  • Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone