What is Small Cell Carcinoma of the Prostate?
Small cell carcinoma of the prostate is a rare type of cancer that arises from the neuroendocrine cells of the prostate. Neuroendocrine cells are cells in the nervous system (brain and spinal cord) that send and receive signals to perform actions between the brain and other glands and organs of the body. It is a deadly cancer with a poor prognosis (chances of being cured). The overall survival of patients with small cell carcinoma is 1-2 years after diagnosis and treatment of the disease.Disease Causes
Small cell carcinoma of the prostate is a rare type of cancer that account for less than 1% of all types of prostate cancer. There is no well-known cause, but certain risk factors such as cigarette smoking, excessive use of certain drugs, and heredity and genetic predisposition are thought to be responsible for the development of small cell carcinoma of the prostate.Signs and Symptoms
The patient may suffer from the following signs and symptoms. These are- Frequent need to pass urine (pee)
- Pain while passing urine
- Pain while ejaculating or sexual activity
- Blood in semen
- Urine dribbling (Leakage of urine while coughing or sneezing)
Diagnosis
The following diagnostic tests can be used to make a diagnosis, these are- Digital Rectal Examination ( DRE)
- Imaging techniques like Pelvic-USG (ultrasonography), MRI, CT-Scan, and PET –scan to detect the size and extent of the tumor.
- Cystoscopy of the urinary bladder and the prostate
- PSA ( Prostate-specific antigen level)
- Trans-rectal needle biopsy
- Transurethral prostate resection
- Immuno-histochemical staining
Treatment
Surgical removal of the cancer part of the prostate or the whole prostate is the main treatment option. Other treatment options are chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and immunotherapy.What Support can we Give for Small Cell Carcinoma of the Prostate?
Small Cell Carcinoma of the Prostate is rare cancer, meaning it is not as well known as other forms of cancer. Without a Ribbon is an Australian organisation that provides support for individuals who suffer from rare cancers. So, we provide a designated platform for Warriors to obtain information specific to their Rare Cancer. We also provide annual opportunities for our Warriors to meet and learn from each other. If you suffer from rare cancer such as Small Cell Carcinoma of the Prostate, we can help and support you through your journey thanks to the generous donations we receive. Click the link below to sign up and become a Warrior today!You can help us with your donation:
Without a Ribbon is a charity that works hard to aid those who suffer from rare cancers. You can help our cause in a variety of ways:Donations — Without a Ribbon is grateful when we receive every donation. Giving to Without a Ribbon helps us to provide ongoing support, organise the annual gathering and subsidise the costs of our Warriors attending these conferences.
Sponsorship — If you wish to sponsor our charity, please contact us using this form.
Volunteering — We are always looking for volunteers to help with different aspects of running our charity. So, if you are looking for volunteer work, please feel free to contact us.
