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Neglected side effects to curative prostate cancer treatments

International Journal of Impotence Research volume 33, pages 428–438 (2021)Cite this article

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Abstract

In this narrative review we summarize neglected side effects of curative intended treatment for prostate cancer. They include climacturia, arousal incontinence (AI), orgasmic disturbances such as altered orgasmic sensation, anorgasmia, and orgasm-associated pain (dysorgasmia), ejaculatory dysfunction, and morphological penile alterations in the form of shortening and deformity. Even though they have not received as much interest as erectile dysfunction (ED) or urinary incontinence, these side effects have been shown to negatively impact patient’s quality of life. They are common and rates of climacturia after radical prostatectomy (RP) range from 20% and 45%, less after external beam radiation therapy (EBRT). Decreased orgasmic sensation ranges from 3.9% to 60% after RP and between 36–57% after EBRT. Dysorgasmia ranges from 9.5–15% for both RP and EBRT. Anejculation after EBRT ranges from 11–71% and rates of penile shortening are reported between 0 and 100%. There are no internationally validated questionnaires that adequately asses these side effects. This is necessary if we are to align patient and partner expectations properly and consequently manage them optimally. Neglected side effects should be discussed with patients and their partners preoperatively, as they are associated with bother and may lead to patient’s avoiding sexual activity.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Urology, Herlev and Gentofte Hospital, Herlev, Denmark

    Alexander B. Nolsøe, Christian Fuglesang S. Jensen, Peter B. Østergren & Mikkel Fode

  2. Faculty of Health and Medical Science, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark

    Alexander B. Nolsøe, Christian Fuglesang S. Jensen & Mikkel Fode

  3. Department of Urology, Zealand University Hospital, Roskilde, Denmark

    Peter B. Østergren & Mikkel Fode

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Nolsøe, A.B., Jensen, C.F.S., Østergren, P.B. et al. Neglected side effects to curative prostate cancer treatments. Int J Impot Res 33, 428–438 (2021). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41443-020-00386-4

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