Effects of External Radiation Therapy for Cancer of the Prostate on the Serum Concentrations Of Testosterone, Follicle-Stimulating Hormone, Luteinizing Hormone and Prolactin

Publisher Website
Google Scholar
Abstract
Testosterone, luteinizing hormone, FSH and prolactin were analyzed in serum from 31 patients with carcinoma of the prostate treated primarily with megavoltage radiation therapy. The total tumor dose varied between 58-71 gray (mean 63.5 gray). Absorbed doses to the testes were measured at .apprx. 1 to > 10 gray. Seventeen patients were investigated retrospectively 3-60 mo. (mean 20 mo.) after therapy; these patients had significantly lower serum testosterone concentrations and significantly higher luteinizing hormone and FSH concentrations than in age-matched controls. Of the patients, 14 were followed before and after radiation treatment. Testosterone concentrations were reduced significantly 1 wk as well as 3 mo. after treatment, but pretreatment values were found on analysis 6 and 12 mo. after treatment. The values for luteinizing hormone and FSH were significantly higher 3, 6 and 12 mo. after radiation treatment compared to pretreatment values. The FSH value was already increased after 1 wk. The greatest observed testosterone alteration occurred 1 wk after treatment in patients who received > 10 gray over the gonads. The use of Pb shields protecting the testes reduced the dose absorbed to the gonads by .apprx. 50%.