Follow‐up surveillance strategies for genitourinary malignancies

Open Access
Publisher Website
Google Scholar
Abstract
BACKGROUND Genitourinary cancers account for more than 20% of all malignancies in the United States. These cancers do not usually yield rapid mortality, thereby necessitating longer-term surveillance strategies. METHODS A review and analysis of relevant studies were performed. Follow-up strategies are proposed to reflect effective methods to detect recurrent prostate, bladder, renal, and testicular cancers. Cost analysis was performed using Medicare reimbursement rates. RESULTS For genitourinary tumors, follow-up tests can be planned rationally based on detection rates and patterns. Tumor grade and stage drive follow-up strategies, along with therapeutic implications of detecting a recurrence. Symptomatic recurrences often obviate the need for radiographic tests and can minimize costs. Stage- specific plans for these four urologic malignancies are outlined specifically. CONCLUSIONS Not all surveillance approaches have been critically tested for follow-up of genitourinary tumors, but ample data are available to propose sound medical and economic strategies. Cancer 2002;94:2892–905. © 2002 American Cancer Society. DOI 10.1002/cncr.10525