Cost-effectiveness of multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging and targeted biopsy in diagnosing prostate cancer

Transrectal ultrasound-guided biopsy (TRUSGB) is the recommended approach to diagnose prostate cancer (PCa). Overdiagnosis and sampling errors represent major limitations. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-targeted biopsy (MRTB) detects higher proportion of significant PCa and reduces diagnosis of insignificant PCa. Costs prevent MRTB from becoming the new standard in PCa diagnosis. The present study aimed at assessing whether added costs of MRI outweigh benefits of MRTB in a cost-utility model.

A Markov model was developed to estimate quality-adjusted life-year gained (QALY) and costs for 2 strategies (the standard 12-core TRUSGB strategy and the MRTB strategy) over 5, 10, 15, and 20 years. MRI was used as triage test in biopsy-naive men with clinical suspicion of PCa. The model takes into account probability of men harboring PCa, diagnostic accuracy of both procedures, and probability of being assigned to various treatment options. Direct medical costs based on health care system perspective were included.

Following standard TRUSGB pathway, calculated cumulative effects at 5, 10, 15, and 20 years were 4.25, 7.17, 9.03, and 10.09 QALY, respectively. Cumulative effects in MRTB pathway were 4.29, 7.26, 9.17, and 10.26 QALY, correspondingly. Costs related to TRUSGB strategy were $8,027, $11,406, $14,883, and $17,587 at 5, 10, 15, and 20 years, respectively, as compared with $7,231, $10,450, $13,267, and $15,400 for the MRTB strategy. At 5, 10, 15, and 20 years, MRTB was the established dominant strategy.

Incorporation of MRI and MRTB in PCa diagnosis and management represents a cost-effective measure at 5, 10, 15, and 20 years after initial diagnosis.