Treatment of early prostatic cancer

The therapeutic management of early prostatic cancer is discussed with background of recent reports and trials. For an old patient with localized, well differentiated cancer deferred treatment can be the best alternative especially if he has significant cardiovascular disease. Advantages and disadvantages of the different local treatment methods (radical prostatectomy, external beam irradiation, interstitial irradiation) are discussed. The author concludes that present information does not permit any recommendations regarding the most effective treatment. The physician should carefully explain all the risks and benefits of each option and then help the patient decide which therapy he would be most willing to accept. (orig.)