[Carcinoma of the prostate presenting as non-regional superficial lymph node metastasis].

BACKGROUND

The objective of this study is to evaluate the prognosis of carcinoma of the prostate presenting as non-regional superficial lymphnode metastasis.

METHODS

From 1986 to 1996 at the Chiba University Hospital, 205 cases of prostatic cancer with distant metastasis were experienced.

RESULTS

In nine of them, non-regional lymphnode metastasis was observed at the diagnosis. In all of them, serum prostate specific antigen and/or prostate acid phosphatase levels were elevated. In eight of nine cases, cancer nodule was detected by digital rectal examination. Anti-androgen therapy was effective in eight cases and five year survival rate was 56%.

CONCLUSION

From these observations, prostate cancer should be considered when superficial lymphnode was enlarged.