Small cell prostate cancer: risks for metastatic disease.

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Urologic Oncology
• Cancer Epidemiology

Background:

• Small cell carcinoma of the prostate (SCCP) is a rare, aggressive cancer subtype.
• SCCP frequently presents with distant metastases and poor survival.
• Limited population data exist on predictors of metastatic SCCP at diagnosis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify clinical and demographic factors associated with metastatic disease at diagnosis in SCCP patients.
• To understand predictors of overall and site-specific metastases in SCCP.
• To improve early detection and risk stratification for SCCP.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of SEER 17 registries (2000-2022).
• Identified 541 patients with microscopically confirmed SCCP (ICD-O-3: 8041/3, C61.9).
• Used univariate and multivariable logistic regression to assess predictors of metastasis.

Main Results:

• 71.7% of SCCP patients presented with metastatic disease.
• Higher positive biopsy core percentage, younger age, lower income, and metropolitan residence predicted metastasis.
• Bone, liver, and lung were common metastatic sites; brain metastasis correlated with liver/lung involvement.

Conclusions:

• Clinical and socioeconomic factors significantly influence metastatic risk in SCCP.
• Higher tumor burden, lower income, urban living, and younger age are associated with increased metastasis.
• Findings support early diagnostic evaluation in high-risk SCCP groups for better prognostication and targeted care.