Evaluation of Sex Hormones in the Treatment of Benign Prostatic Hypertrophy, Carcinoma of the Prostate and Other Diseases of the Genito-Urinary System1

Abstract

MANY STARTLING observations have been reported from the use of the sex hormones in the treatment of genitourinary diseases. In some instances, the reports have been so conflicting that a general feeling of confusion has developed among many physicians concerning the proper indications for the clinical application of these hormones. CARCINOMA OF THE PROSTATE GLAND Recent statistics show that up to 15 per cent of men beyond the age of 55 years develop carcinoma of the prostate. Many different forms of treatment have been advocated and intensive efforts made to treat this disease successfully. In advanced prostatic cancer, little encouragement has been found from any method of therapy. It is generally agreed by urological surgeons that in early carcinoma of the prostate, that is, where the disease is confined within the limits of the gland itself, radical perineal prostatectomy is the proper procedure. Unfortunately, this group of patients is very much in the minority as compared to the group in whom the dis...