[Small-cell carcinoma of the prostate]

Small cell carcinoma of the prostate (SCCP) is a rare entity. A literature review disclosed less than 150 cases. SCCP has an aggressive course and both local and distant failure is common. The optimal treatment method has not been clearly established. We review our experience with 7 patients paying attention to clinical and pathological details. Three patients had mixed tumors of both SCCP and adenocarcinoma, three had pure adenocarcinomas that occurred as small cell carcinoma and one patient had pure small cell carcinoma. All patients progressed locally and developed distant metastasis. We recommend the use of hormonal manipulation and combination of chemotherapy, as well as surgery and/or radiation therapy of the prostate for local control and we emphasize that histologic entity is important for proper treatment.