One of the most difficult aspects of the prostate cancer journey is the potential for a late-stage diagnosis and spread of cancer throughout the body. There is new research among prostate cancer patients with metastasis in the liver. Visit PHENPM.com to find out more.
Cancer and Liver Metastases
When prostate cancer spreads to the liver, it generally becomes harder to treat. A study from British Columbia looked at over 1,200 men with metastatic prostate cancer. It was found that 13% had cancer in their liver. Many of these subjects had several tumors and lower-than-expected PSA levels. In some cases, their cancer took the form of small cell disease, which grows quickly.
Survival Rates
High survival rates with early treatment and advanced disease show the urgency of finding better treatments for men whose cancer has spread to the liver.
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- Earlier Treatment: Men who were treated before their cancer became resistant to hormone therapy lived about 15.5 months.
- Advanced Disease: When the cancer had already stopped responding to treatments, survival fell to around 5–9 months.
The Role of Genomics
In this study, researchers also used liquid biopsies, which are simple blood tests that find tumor DNA in the bloodstream. These tests helped the researchers learn more about each tumor’s genetic profile. Their findings include the following.
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- Higher levels of tumor DNA in the blood (ctDNA) were linked to shorter survival times.
- Changes in key genes like TP53, PTEN, and RB1 were common.
- Men who lived longer had fewer gene changes and lower ctDNA levels.
Focus on High-Risk Men
Some men have a higher chance of developing advanced disease because of factors like African ancestry, family history, or genetic traits. Studies show that, when these men have access to early screening and genetic testing, they can have better outcomes from more precise treatments.
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- Broad Clinical Research Participation: It’s important to include men of all backgrounds in clinical trials so that new treatments can help everyone.
- Precision Medicine: Genomic tests can reveal which treatments will work best for each person.
Next Steps
If you or a loved one has metastatic prostate cancer, especially if it has reached the liver, talk to your doctor about:
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- Genomic Testing: Find out if there are genetic changes in the tumor.
- Liquid Biopsies: Learn if a simple blood test can show new ways to treat the cancer.
- Clinical Trials: See if research studies offer promising, new therapies.
At PHEN, we believe that gaining greater knowledge leads to better care. Even if prostate cancer has spread to the liver, advances in precision medicine can offer new hope.
