[Loss of bone mass in patients with prostate cancer subjected to androgenic deprivation].

CONTEXT: Treatment based on androgenic deprivation is one of the standard treatments that many prostate cancer patients receive. Moreover, its use is increasing due to a clear expansion of the indications of this therapy in patients with localized cancer.

SUMMARY OF EVIDENCE: In spite of being classically considered that it is well tolerated, androgenic deprivation has adverse effects. Of these, it is worth mentioning the loss of mineral bone mass, which can lead to osteoporosis and increase the risk of bone fracture. Some fractures may have serious consequences, as occurs with hip fractures. To make a diagnosis in this situation, there are useful procedures such as bone densitometry. Once diagnosed, the decrease in mineral bone mass can be managed with dietary recommendations, general changes in lifestyle, or with drugs such as denosumab.

CONCLUSIONS

Following applicable recommendations, urologists must carefully monitor the bone health of patients with prostate cancer subjected to androgenic deprivation, in order to obtain an early diagnosis and to apply the appropriate general and/or therapeutic measures, if necessary.