Testosterone Therapy Among Prostate Cancer Survivors

The use of testosterone in men with a history of prostate cancer remains controversial in light of established findings linking androgens to prostate cancer growth. However, hypogonadism significantly affects quality of life and has negative sequelae, and the risks and benefits of testosterone therapy might be worthwhile to consider in all men, even those with a history of high-risk prostate cancer.

To discuss the effects of testosterone on the prostate and the use of testosterone therapy in hypogonadal men with a history of prostate cancer.

Review of the literature examining the effects of testosterone on the prostate and the efficacy and safety of exogenous testosterone in men with a history of prostate cancer.

Summary of effects of exogenous and endogenous testosterone on prostate tissue in vitro and in vivo, with a focus on effects in men with a history of prostate cancer.

Testosterone therapy ameliorates the symptoms of hypogonadism, decreases the risk for its negative sequelae, and can significantly improve quality of life. Recent studies do not support an increased risk for de novo prostate cancer, progression of the disease, or biochemical recurrence in hypogonadal men with a history of non-high-risk prostate cancer treated with testosterone therapy. Evidence supporting the use of testosterone in the setting of high-risk prostate cancer is less clear.

Despite the historical reluctance toward the use of testosterone therapy in men with a history of prostate cancer, modern evidence suggests that testosterone replacement is a safe and effective treatment option for hypogonadal men with non-high-risk prostate cancer. Additional work to definitively demonstrate the efficacy and safety of testosterone therapy in men with prostate cancer is needed, and persistent vigilance and surveillance of treated men remains necessary.