Is there a place for cytoreduction in metastatic prostate cancer?

Abstract

Cytoreductive treatment in metastatic prostate cancer (mPCa) primarily refers to local control of the primary tumour by radical prostatectomy (RP) or radiotherapy; however, extirpative treatment of limited metastatic disease by stereotactic body radiotherapy or surgical resection may further reduce or even possibly eliminate disease burden. This comment piece explores the theory and evidence for RP in the setting of mPCa.Cytoreductive treatment may now be an option when considered in the context of multimodal therapy. Large, multicentre randomized controlled trials are needed to establish its safety and efficacy. Until further evidence is available, cytoreductive RP should be undertaken in a clinical trial setting only.