[Application of neoadjuvant hormonal therapy in (125)I permanent seed implantation for prostate cancer]

To explore the therapeutic response and toxicity of neoadjuvant hormonal therapy in (125)I permanent seed implantation for prostate cancer and validate the clinical efficacy of neoadjuvant hormonal therapy.

A total of 165 patients with T1c-T3b prostate cancer received transperineal ultrasound-guided (125)I permanent seed implantation and neo-adjuvant hormonal therapy (NHT). Their median age was 79 years (range: 65 - 88). They were randomized into 2 groups: group A (n = 90, 3-month NHT before (125)I permanent seed implantation for prostate cancer 0 and group B (n = 75, (125)I permanent seed implantation). The prostate surface antigen (PSA) response rate, the change of prostate volume and the toxicities of urinary system and sexual function were observed.

The median PSA decreased to 0.38 (0.01 - 6.56) µg/L from 26.50 (3.56 - 150.00) µg/L after a 3-month neoadjuvant hormonal therapy and the median prostate volume dropped from 29.33 (23.62 - 65.21) ml from 46.38 (19.28 - 128.10) ml during a follow-up period of 24 months. After brachytherapy, the PSA level was maintained at a relatively low level (median number of 0.62 µg/L and 2.56 µg/L in groups A and B respectively). And 6 and 9 patients suffered from acute urinary retention after brachytherapy in groups A and B respectively.

Neoadjuvant hormonal therapy can reduce the volume of prostate before brachytherapy and serum PSA in a short time. The toxicities of urinary system, gastrointestinal tract and sexual function should be examined by further randomized control studies. A long-term observation is needed for the PSA-free survival rate.