[Genitourinary malignancies and rheumatoid arthritis]

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Rheumatology
• Immunology

Background:

• Genitourinary neoplasms increase with age, impacting aging populations with rheumatic diseases.
• Antirheumatic therapies may coincide with genitourinary tumors, necessitating careful drug management.
• Paraneoplastic syndromes and novel immunostimulating cancer therapies create complex clinical challenges.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review diagnostic procedures, therapies, and follow-up for genitourinary cancers in patients with rheumatic diseases.
• To outline key considerations for rheumatologists and uro-oncologists.
• To emphasize the importance of interdisciplinary communication and collaboration.

Main Methods:

• Review of current German and European guidelines for urological cancers.
• Analysis of the interplay between rheumatic diseases, antirheumatic therapies, and genitourinary malignancies.
• Discussion of diagnostic and therapeutic challenges.

Main Results:

• Large increases in risk from conventional and/or biological disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) for genitourinary malignancies appear unlikely in most cases.
• Paraneoplastic musculoskeletal symptoms can occur with genitourinary cancers.
• Immunostimulating cancer drugs may induce autoimmune symptoms, requiring rheumatologist involvement.

Conclusions:

• Careful individual balancing of DMARDs and immunosuppressive therapy is crucial.
• Interdisciplinary cooperation between rheumatologists and uro-oncologists is essential for optimal patient care.
• Enhanced communication and involvement in tumor boards can improve treatment quality for joint patients.