RADIATION-THERAPY AS TREATMENT FOR STAGE T1C PROSTATE CANCERS

Preliminary outcomes are reported for 202 patients with Tlc prostate c ancer treated with three-dimensional conformal radiation treatment (3D CRT). At 5 years, actuarial freedom from failure is demonstrated in 97 % of patients with pretreatment PSA levels of <10 ng/ml, in 88% of tho se with PSA levels of 10-19.9 ng/ml, and in 91% of young patients (les s than or equal to 65 years) with PSA levels of <20 ng/ml. The late mo rbidity following this technology is extremely favorable, with <1% of patients developing serious GI sequelae, <1% using a daily pad for inc ontinence, and 61% maintaining sexual potency. Continued development a nd use of 3DCRT technology is indicated for patients who elect externa l beam radiation treatment.