Prostate cancer management in the era of COVID‐19: Recommendations from the Hong Kong Urological Association and Hong Kong Society of Uro‐oncology

Abstract

AIM: In response to the fast-developing coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, special arrangement and coordination are urgently required in the interdisciplinary care of patients across different medical specialties. This article provides recommendations on the management of different stages of localized or metastatic prostate cancer (PC) amid this pandemic. METHODS: The Hong Kong Urological Association and Hong Kong Society of Uro-oncology formed a joint discussion panel, which consisted of six urologists and six clinical oncologists with extensive experience in the public and private sectors. Following an evidence-based approach, the latest relevant publications were searched and reviewed, before proceeding to a structured discussion of relevant clinical issues. RESULTS: The joint panel provided recommendations for PC management during the pandemic, in terms of general considerations, diagnostic procedures, different disease stages, treatment modules, patient support, and interdisciplinary collaboration. The overall goal was to minimize the risk of infection while avoiding unnecessary delays and compromises in management outcomes. Practical issues during the pandemic were addressed such as the use of invasive diagnostic procedures, robotic-assisted laparoscopic prostatectomy, hypofractionated radiotherapy, and prolonged androgen deprivation therapy. The recommendations were explicated in the context of Hong Kong, a highly populated international city, in relation to the latest international guidelines and evidence. CONCLUSION: A range of recommendations on the management of PC patients during the COVID-19 pandemic was developed. Urologists, oncologists, and physicians treating PC patients may refer to them as practical guidance.