Impact of docetaxel-based chemotherapy on quality of life of patients with castration-resistant prostate cancer: results from a prospective phase II randomized trial

OBJECTIVES To assess quality of life (QoL) outcomes and pain changes in patients affected by castration-resistant prostate cancer enrolled in a phase II randomized trial of 3-week docetaxel (DOC)-based chemotherapy. To provide further data to clarify the conflicting published data concerning the impact of DOC on the patients' QoL. PATIENTS AND METHODS QoL outcomes were assessed using the European Organisation for the Research and Treatment of Cancer QLQ-C30 questionnaire. Pain changes were evaluated by means of the Brief Pain Inventory at baseline and after every two DOC courses. The patients completing at least two questionnaires (at baseline and before the third course) were considered evaluable. RESULTS In all, 59 patients were evaluable. Asymptomatic patients and responders had a better baseline QoL than symptomatic patients and non-responders. There were no statistically significant changes in the QLQ-C30 scales during treatment except in the case of patients receiving DOC and estramustine, who experienced a significant decrease in pain. There was a progressive improvement in the mean intensity and interference scores of the Brief Pain Inventory. CONCLUSIONS Our data confirm that QoL is generally maintained during chemotherapy. There is a substantial reduction in pain. Our results also suggest that baseline QoL may predict treatment response.