Impact of Subcutaneous Fat Thickness on Biochemical Recurrence and Recurrence-Free Survival in Patients Undergoing Radical Prostatectomy

Abstract

Objective: Aim of this study is to evaluate the association between subcutaneous fat thickness (SCFT) and biochemical recurrence (BCR) in patients who have undergone radical prostatectomy (RP). Material and Methods: Study included 52 patients who had non-metastatic prostate cancer (PCa), underwent RP at our center between April 2015 and January 2020. All patients had a full abdomen computed tomography (CT) scan within six months prior to surgery. Measurements of fat, muscle, and tissue were evaluated by two radiologists, and binary logistic regression analysis was performed to determine factors influencing BCR. SCFT was identified as the only radiological factor influencing recurrence. A cut-off value (25.6) was determined using an ROC curve, and patients were divided into two groups based on this value. Results: In Group 1 (SCFT < 25.6), the median recurrence time was 39 (3-65) months, and the median follow-up time was 40.5 (17-65) months. In Group 2 (SCFT ≥ 25.6), the median recurrence time was 20.5 (3-58) months, and the median follow-up time was 43 (12-69) months. The one-year and three-year recurrence-free survival rates were 82.1% and 78.4% for Group 1, respectively, while they were 62.5% and 52.2% for Group 2, respectively (p=0.047). Conclusions: The ability to predict recurrence in PCa is crucial for the management and treatment of the disease. Our study, which demonstrates a significant relationship between SCFT and BCR, suggests that radiological evaluation and measurements will be further utilized in the diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up of the disease.