Ninja Nerds!
In this episode of the Ninja Nerd Podcast, Zach and Rob break down the essential clinical and pathophysiologic features of Prostate Cancer, one of the most common malignancies affecting men worldwide.
We begin with the epidemiology and risk factors, highlighting age, race, family history, and androgen exposure. From there, we explore the pathogenesis of prostate cancer, focusing on the role of androgen receptor signaling.
The discussion covers clinical manifestations, including urinary symptoms, back pain from bone metastases, and signs of spinal cord compression. We also examine the utility and controversy surrounding PSA screening, along with digital rectal exam findings and the importance of prostate biopsy for histologic confirmation, emphasizing Gleason scoring and its prognostic significance.
Next, we analyze imaging modalities like multiparametric MRI and bone scans, and review treatment strategies based on risk stratification, ranging from active surveillance and radical prostatectomy to radiation therapy and androgen deprivation therapy (ADT).