Health-related quality of life and morbidity in patients receiving brachytherapy for clinically localized prostate cancer

J Endourol. 2000 May;14(4):371-4. doi: 10.1089/end.2000.14.371.

Abstract

Health-related quality of life must be a factor when treatment options are discussed with a patient. Quality of life is measured by validated questionnaires that include generic and disease-targeted measures. Urinary and rectal symptoms and sexual function are evaluated after treatment for prostate cancer. Quality of life is adversely affected in the early post-brachytherapy period primarily by the urinary morbidity. Urinary symptoms peak 2 months after treatment and decline thereafter, although severe long-term urinary toxicity occurs in 3% to 12% of patients. Urinary symptoms are generally treated with alpha-blocker and anticholinergic drugs, but 2% to 5% of patients require transurethral resection of the prostate to relieve persistent obstruction. However, 6 months after treatment, overall satisfaction is excellent, and the majority of patients would recommend the procedure to a friend.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Brachytherapy* / adverse effects
  • Health Status*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Prostatic Neoplasms / radiotherapy*
  • Quality of Life*
  • Rectal Diseases / etiology
  • Sexual Dysfunction, Physiological / etiology
  • Urination Disorders / etiology