[Natural history of cancer of the prostate]

Based on a literature review, the natural history of cancer of prostate is analyzed stage by stage. Included in the study were only untreated patients or those in whom treatment had not affected the course of this neoplasm. Clinico-pathologic correlations, conversion rate of localized to metastatic forms and 5 and 10 year survival rates were determined for each stage. For stage A (25%) the criteria of size and tumoral grade should be analyzed relative to their incidence on the neoplastic course and patient survival rate. The problem of stage A1 prostate cancer in a young patient is analyzed. For stage B (25%) the determining factor for local extension and the presence of metastatic pelvic glands is the grade. Emphasis in stage C (20%) is placed on the importance of the distinction between penetration and extension through the capsule, on which the possible need for adjuvant radiotherapy is based. For stage D (30%) a more detailed analysis is made of the problems raised by elevated plasma acid phosphatases levels in the presence of a negative finding for extension of tumor and the significance of pelvic gland metastases.