Skeletal-related events (SREs) are a common complication of bone metastases, and have serious negative consequences for patients with castrate-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC).
SREs can lead to severe pain, increased risk of death, increased health care costs and reduced quality of life. Until recently, zoledronic acid has been the sole standard of care for the prevention of SREs in men with CRPC with bone metastases. Denosumab, a receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa-B ligand (RANK-L) inhibitor, has been recently approved for use in Canada for this indication, thus presenting another option for these patients. Denosumab was shown to be superior to zoledronic acid in delaying the time to first or subsequent SREs in CRPC patients with bone metastases. This review discusses current and previous trials examining agents designed to prevent SREs in men with CRPC and bone metastases. It also discusses the practical aspects of administering a bone-targeted therapy, including choosing a bone-targeted therapy, monitoring at the onset and during therapy, switching from one therapy to another, and assessing potential complications.
Written by:
So A, Chin J, Fleshner N, Saad F. Are you the author?
Department of Urological Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC.
Reference: Can Urol Assoc J. 2012 Dec;6(6):465-70.
doi: 10.5489/cuaj.12149
PubMed Abstract
PMID: 23282666
UroToday.com Prostate Cancer Section
