Prostate cancer nomograms: an update

Eur Urol. 2006 Nov;50(5):914-26; discussion 926. doi: 10.1016/j.eururo.2006.07.042. Epub 2006 Aug 11.

Abstract

Objective: Several nomograms have been developed to predict outcomes related to prostate cancer (PCa).

Methods: We provide a descriptive and an analytic comparison of nomograms. Further, we report a set of recent PCa nomograms, in which we recorded predictor variables, number of patients used to develop each nomogram, and nomogram-specific features. Moreover, accuracy estimates and type of validation are considered.

Results: Our findings suggest a demand for updated nomograms in selected fields of PCa outcomes. Moreover, an increasing number of nomograms address important end points such as prostate-specific antigen recurrence, distant metastases, or androgen-independent PCa-specific survival.

Conclusion: Our results suggest that nomograms are available for many PCa-related outcomes. They represent a valid methodologic approach if correct criteria are met.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Biopsy
  • Calibration
  • Humans
  • Life Expectancy
  • Male
  • Nomograms*
  • Prostatic Neoplasms / diagnosis*
  • Prostatic Neoplasms / pathology
  • Prostatic Neoplasms / radiotherapy
  • Prostatic Neoplasms / surgery
  • Recurrence
  • Survival Rate