[Androgen suppression for the treatment of prostate cancer in the elderly]

Abstract

Prostate cancer (PaC) is a significant health problem. Elderly have the highest incidence of the disease as age is its strongest risk factor. Despite its complications, the use of androgen suppression in aging patients with prostate cancer has become extremely frequent with probable excess. However, some of these complications carry specific mortality and all of them have a negative impact on quality of life. It is critical to perform a geriatric assessment, concerning physical, mental and social items, before to consider androgen suppression in this population. Indications of androgen suppression for the treatment of prostate cancer follow the guidelines of CCAFU. Delayed treatment deserves a special attention when possible. Treatment modalities are no specific to the elderly, but complications have to be anticipated with preventive measures. Intermittent androgen suppression should be considered with caution. Close follow up will focus on the diagnosis of adverse effects of androgen suppression.