Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 1, 2026
A Bioluminescent and Fluorescent Orthotopic Syngeneic Murine Model of Androgen-dependent and Castration-resistant Prostate Cancer
Published on: March 6, 2018
Outcome and Toxicity of Moderately Hypofractionated Post-Prostatectomy Radiotherapy: A Retrospective Study
Rocchina Vilella1, Fiorella D'Auria2, Luciana Valvano1
1Laboratory of Clinical Research and Advanced Diagnostics, Centro di Riferimento Oncologico della Basilicata (IRCCS-CROB), 85028 Rionero in Vulture, PZ, Italy.
Post-prostatectomy radiotherapy using moderately hypofractionated radiation therapy (RT) shows promising prostate cancer (PCa) survival rates with acceptable toxicity. Larger irradiated volumes, particularly whole pelvis irradiation, increase the risk of late gastrointestinal and genitourinary toxicity.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Radiation Oncology
- Urologic Oncology
Background:
- Retrospective analysis of 67 prostate cancer patients treated with moderately hypofractionated radiotherapy (RT) post-prostatectomy.
- Adjuvant or salvage intent for patients with prostate cancer (PCa).
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate clinical and toxicity outcomes of moderately hypofractionated RT in prostate cancer patients.
- To identify predictors of toxicity in this patient cohort.
Main Methods:
- Volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT) for irradiation delivery.
- Median follow-up of 48 months.
- Analysis of biochemical relapse-free survival and toxicity rates (acute and late GI/GU).
Main Results:
- 3- and 5-year biochemical relapse-free survival rates of 80% and 69%, respectively.
- Acute toxicity rates: 54% GI, 36% GU; no Grade 3 acute toxicity.
- Late toxicity rates: GI (G1-G3: 25.5%, 3.6%, 1.8%), GU (G1-G3: 37.1%, 11.1%, 7.4%).
- Concomitant prostate bed (PB) and whole pelvis (WP) irradiation significantly increased late GI and GU toxicity (p=0.029, p=0.012).
Conclusions:
- Postoperative hypofractionated RT demonstrates promising clinical outcomes and acceptable toxicity at 48 months median follow-up.
- Irradiated RT volume is a significant predictor of toxicity, particularly for late GI and GU events.
