Conservative approaches to the management of localized prostatic cancer

Background. The management of early stage prostatic cancer is controversial. Methods. Pertinent literature concerning the conservative management of early stage prostatic cancer by early endocrine therapy (EET) or by deferred treatment (DT) was reviewed. Results. EET has not been systematically studied. Available evidence suggests that early stage prostatic cancer often progresses slowly and that DT results in a cancer-specific mortality of approximately 80% at 10 years. Conclusions. EET warrants clinical investigation. DT is a management option, at least in patients with a life expectancy of 10 years or less.