Best therapeutic approach in metastatic hormone-sensitive prostate cancer based on disease volume: a systematic

Fabrizio Di Costanzo1,2, Chiara Mercinelli3,4, Alessio Signori5,6

  • 1Department of Medical Oncology, Università degli Studi di Napoli Federico II, Naples, Italy.

The Oncologist
|November 17, 2025
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Triplet combinations offer the best survival benefits for high-volume metastatic hormone-sensitive prostate cancer (mHSPC). Androgen receptor pathway inhibitor (ARPI) doublets are most effective for low-volume mHSPC, guiding first-line treatment choices.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Clinical Trials
  • Prostate Cancer Research

Background:

  • Metastatic hormone-sensitive prostate cancer (mHSPC) presents treatment heterogeneity.
  • Physicians face challenges in selecting first-line therapy due to diverse trial outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To systematically review and network meta-analyze approved mHSPC treatments.
  • To stratify treatment efficacy by disease burden (high- vs. low-volume) and metastatic onset (synchronous vs. metachronous).

Main Methods:

  • Eleven randomized controlled trials (RCTs) published up to October 30th, 2024.
  • Treatment regimens included Triplets (docetaxel, ARPIs, ADT), Doublets (docetaxel/ADT, ARPI/ADT), and Monotherapy (ADT).
  • Overall survival (OS) and radiographic progression-free survival (rPFS) were analyzed across subgroups.

Main Results:

  • Triplet combinations significantly improved OS and rPFS in high-volume and high-volume/synchronous mHSPC.
  • ARPI/ADT doublets demonstrated superior outcomes in low-volume and low-volume/metachronous mHSPC.
  • In high-volume/metachronous disease, triplets and doublets showed comparable efficacy.

Conclusions:

  • Evidence supports mHSPC treatment selection based on disease volume and metastasis timing.
  • Triplets provide the strongest survival benefits for high-volume/synchronous mHSPC.
  • ARPI doublets are the preferred choice for low-volume mHSPC.