The Di Bella Method (DBM) in the treatment of prostate cancer: a preliminary retrospective study of 16 patients and a review of the literature

Neuro Endocrinol Lett. 2013;34(6):523-8.

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the objective clinical response and the safety of the combined administration of somatostatin, melatonin, retinoids, vitamin D3, dopamine subtype 2 receptor (D2R) agonists and low doses of cyclophosphamide, associated with androgen ablation, in patients with a histological diagnosis of prostate adenocarcinoma (Pac).

Materials and methods: The clinical data of 30 patients with non-invasive and metastatic prostate cancer, who attended our institution over a period of more than 5 years, were retrospectively reviewed.

Results: 16 patients satisfied the evaluation criteria. Median age: 64 years. Disease stages: 8 patients (50%) were in Stage II. For advanced stages (Stage IV), secondary lesions were located in the bones and lymph nodes. Taken together, an overall objective response (OR) [Complete response (CR) + Partial Response (PR)] was achieved in 69% of the patients, with 88% of objective clinical benefit [CR+PR+SD]. For local Prostate Cancer group, an OR was achieved in 87.5% of patients (7 cases; 53-98; 95% CI), with CR in 62.5% (5 cases, 31-86; 95% CI). In metastatic disease, the OR was 50% (4 cases; 21-78; 95% CI), with a 20% of CR (2 cases; 7-59; 95% CI) and 75% of clinical benefit.

Conclusions: This preliminary study shows that patients with early and advanced forms of prostate cancer, not previously treated by surgery and/or chemo-radiotherapy, can achieve a more than positive clinical benefit with the protocol foreseen by the Di Bella Method. Further clinical investigations are strongly recommended.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Antineoplastic Combined Chemotherapy Protocols / administration & dosage*
  • Cholecalciferol / administration & dosage*
  • Cyclophosphamide / administration & dosage
  • Dopamine Agonists / administration & dosage
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Melatonin / administration & dosage*
  • Middle Aged
  • Pilot Projects
  • Prostatic Neoplasms / drug therapy*
  • Retinoids / administration & dosage*
  • Retrospective Studies
  • Somatostatin / administration & dosage*
  • Treatment Outcome

Substances

  • Dopamine Agonists
  • Retinoids
  • Cholecalciferol
  • Somatostatin
  • Cyclophosphamide
  • Melatonin