The Role of Repeat Transurethral Biopsy in Stage a Carcinoma of the Prostate

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Abstract
There is a significant difference in survival of patients with stages A1 and A2 prostatic adenocarcinoma. It is important to distinguish focal occult adenocarcinoma from diffuse occult adenocarcinoma. That may be impossible from a single transurethral resection of the prostate. This study was designed to determine if repeat transurethral biopsy would be helpful in defining the extent of stage A disease. Between Jan., 1970 and Jan., 1976, 27 of 61 patients with stage A adenocarcinoma of the prostate were selected for repeat transurethral biopsy of the prostate 3 mo. after the initial diagnosis. All 27 patients had a focus or focal adenocarinoma of the prostate at the initial resection. Seven patients (26%) had significant residual tumor at repeat resection and were reclassified as stage A2. Three patients had a single focus of adenocarcinoma on repeat biopsy. Thus, 37% of the study group of patients had residual carcinoma after initial diagnosis by transurethral resection. Repeat transurethral biopsy is helpful in defining the extent of stage A disease and formulating a rational plan of therapy.