Prostate-specific antigen significance in frail men

Read full text
Authors: Νικόλαος Κωστακόπουλος, Themistoklis Ch. Bellos, Stamatios N. Katsimperis, Ioannis S. Manolitsis, Lazaros I. Tzelves, Evangelos Malovrouvas, Athanasios Papatsoris
Cited by: 0
References: 28

Abstract

According to the guidelines of the European Association of Urology (EAU), it is recommended to exclude PSA testing when the expected remaining lifespan is less than 10 years. In this study, we provide a comprehensive analysis of the impact of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) testing on the quality of life of elderly men who are frail. We conducted a comprehensive literature review to identify publications that examine the use of PSA as a screening and prognostic tool for prostatic illnesses in frail men. Our search included the following keywords: Prostate-specific antigen, Frailty, Prostate cancer screening, Hypogonadism, and benign prostatic obstruction (BPO). PSA testing can be used to identify prostate cancer in its early and treatable stages in fragile men with a life expectancy of over 15 years. Additionally, PSA testing allows for the evaluation of the effectiveness of various prostate cancer treatments and the monitoring of testosterone replacement therapy for hypogonadism. PSA is also indicative of the clinical development of patients with benign prostatic obstruction (BPO). Nevertheless, PSA is being extensively provided without individualized patient assessment, contributing to the economic strain on healthcare systems. Conducting a frailty evaluation on men to determine the potential advantages of PSA tests on their quality of life will help minimize avoidable expenses.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Prostate Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment Frailty in Older Adults Urinary Bladder and Prostate Research

Publication details

Journal / source
Hellenic Urology
Volume
38
Issue
1
Publication date
1 March 2026
Language
EN