The effect of cyproterone acetate and orchiectomy on metastases from prostatic cancer

We have studied 38 patients with previously untreated, widespread prostatic cancer, who were submitted to therapy with cyproterone acetate and orchiectomy. 70% of patients with symptoms have shown subjective improvement. Moreover, it was possible to observe the regression, stabilization or progression of metastases in 32, 50 and 18% of the cases, respectively. We conclude that such therapy is effective in the initial treatment of metastatic prostate cancer and can be continued under radiographic control until the appearance of new metastases. At this point radiotherapy and alkylating agents may be effective.