A. Edward Yen, MD, presented “Metastatic Prostate Cancer: Can Urologists Work Alongside Medical Oncologists in Advanced Disease?” at the 27th Annual Innovations in Urologic Practice conference on September 22nd, 2023.

How to cite: Yen, A. Edward. “Metastatic Prostate Cancer: Can Urologists Work Alongside Medical Oncologists in Advanced Disease?.” September 2023. Accessed Apr 2024. https://grandroundsinurology.com/metastatic-prostate-cancer-can-urologists-work-alongside-medical-oncologists-in-advanced-disease/

Metastatic Prostate Cancer: Can Urologists Work Alongside Medical Oncologists in Advanced Disease? – Summary

A. Edward Yen, MD, discusses the importance of collaborating with medical oncologists when using hormone-directed therapy to treat metastatic prostate cancer. He begins by illustrating changes in treatment approach, using a case study to contrast past treatment algorithms with modern treatment approaches.

Dr. Yen presents a treatment algorithm from the early 2000s, calling attention to the isolation of “urologist” versus “oncologist” options in patient treatment and the impact of those isolated treatment approaches on overall survival. Dr. Yen contrasts this approach with modern agents and therapies which require collaboration between urologists, medical oncologists, and other medical disciplines.

Dr. Yen then addresses practical challenges associated with increased multidisciplinary collaboration, including keeping up with rapid advancements, managing treatment toxicities, and sequencing and selecting treatment. 

Dr. Yen concludes by presenting a model of collaboration used by his practice which integrates urology, medical oncology, radiation oncology, nuclear medicine, pathology, interventional radiology, palliative/supportive care, genetics, nutrition and dietetics, psychology, and social work in treatment. He notes that the involvement of these specialties in the treatment of advanced prostate cancer leads to comprehensive evaluations, tailored treatment plans, and better outcomes for patients.

About The 27th Annual Innovations in Urologic Practice:

Presented by co-chairs Mohit Khera, MD, MBA, MPH, and Michael Coburn, MD, FACS, the Innovations in Urologic Practice conference provides a detailed review and commentary on multiple genitourinary and urologic diseases. Among the featured oncological topics are bladder cancer and immunotherapies, as well as upper tract cancer management, prostate cancer, including state-of-the-art imaging, focal therapy, and MRI. Experts also discuss new tools and techniques for nephrectomy and treating advanced renal cell carcinoma. In terms of general urological approaches, the conference also includes pelvic reconstruction and trauma; men’s health topics like male infertility, andrology, and sexual dysfunction; OAB and voiding dysfunctions; and ways to diagnose and treat infections in the urology patient.

For further educational activities from this conference, visit our collection page.