Open AccessManagement Recommendations for Prostate Cancer during the COVID-19 pandemic: A Systematic Review
Author(s) -
Alan Martínez-Salas,
Iñigo Navarro-Ruesga,
Erick A. Rodenas-Gil,
Jesus S. Muruato-Araiza,
Aldo Jiménez-García,
Irving Reyna-Blanco,
J.G. Morales-Montor,
Carlos Pacheco-Gahbler
Publication year - 2021
Publication title -
société internationale d'urologie journal
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
ISSN - 2563-6499
DOI - 10.48083/mbsb4196
Subject(s) - medicine , prostate cancer , pandemic , medline , androgen deprivation therapy , systematic review , radiation therapy , watchful waiting , intensive care medicine , covid-19 , oncology , disease , cancer , infectious disease (medical specialty) , political science , law
The COVID-19 pandemic has delayed screening, diagnostic workup, and treatment in prostate cancer (PCa) patients. Our purpose was to review PCa screening, diagnostic workup, active surveillance (AS), radical prostatectomy (RP), radiotherapy (RT), androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) and systemic therapy during theCOVID-19 pandemic.Materials and Methods: We performed a systematic literature search of MEDLINE, EMBASE, Scopus, LILACS, and Web of Science, according to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses Protocols (PRISMA-P) statement for relevant material published from December 2019 to February 2021.Results: Prostate biopsy can be delayed, except when high-risk PCa is suspected or the patient is symptomatic. Active surveillance is appropriate for patients with very low risk, low risk (LR) and favorable intermediate risk (FIR). RP and RT for high risk and very high risk can be safely postponed up to 3 months. Hypofractionated external beamRT (EBRT) is recommended when RT is employed. ADT should be used according to standard PCa-based indications. Chemotherapy should be postponed until the pandemic is contained.Conclusions: The international urological community was not prepared for such an acute and severe pandemic. PCa patients can be adequately managed according to risk stratification. During the COVID-19 pandemic, LR and FIR patients can be followed with active surveillance. Delaying RP and RT in high risk and locally advanced diseaseis justified.