Multiparametric MRI in Active Surveillance of Prostate Cancer: An Overview and a Practical Approach.

Area of Science:

• Urology
• Radiology
• Oncology

Background:

• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is crucial for prostate cancer detection.
• MRI-guided biopsy offers superior accuracy compared to conventional methods for diagnosing prostate cancer.
• The use of MRI in monitoring low-risk prostate cancer during active surveillance is growing, but its role in follow-up requires clarification.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current evidence on the use of MRI in active surveillance for prostate cancer.
• To propose a practical framework for integrating MRI into active surveillance protocols.
• To clarify the role of MRI in patient selection and follow-up during active surveillance.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review of existing literature on MRI in prostate cancer active surveillance.
• Analysis of studies evaluating MRI for patient selection and monitoring during active surveillance.
• Development of a practical approach based on synthesized evidence.

Main Results:

• MRI enhances patient selection for active surveillance at diagnosis.
• Evidence for MRI's role in monitoring patients during active surveillance follow-up is still developing.
• Current data suggests MRI can identify disease progression or recurrence.

Conclusions:

• MRI is valuable for initial patient selection in active surveillance protocols.
• Further research is needed to define the optimal use of MRI during the follow-up phase of active surveillance.
• Integrating MRI into active surveillance may improve management and outcomes for low-risk prostate cancer patients.