Androgen deprivation therapy
Androgen Deprivation Therapy
Androgen deprivation therapy (pronunciation: an-dro-jen dep-ri-va-shun ther-a-py), also known as ADT or androgen suppression therapy, is a type of hormone therapy used primarily to treat prostate cancer. The therapy aims to reduce levels of androgens, male hormones that stimulate the growth of prostate cancer cells.
Etymology
The term "androgen deprivation therapy" is derived from the Greek words "andro" meaning man, and "genes" meaning born of, produced by. It refers to the process of depriving the body of androgens, which are hormones that stimulate the growth of prostate cancer cells.
Procedure
Androgen deprivation therapy can be achieved through surgical or medical castration. Surgical castration involves the removal of the testicles, which produce most of the body's androgens. Medical castration, on the other hand, involves the use of drugs to suppress the production of androgens.
Related Terms
- Hormone Therapy: A cancer treatment that removes, blocks, or adds hormones to destroy or slow the growth of cancer cells.
- Prostate Cancer: A type of cancer that occurs in the prostate, a small walnut-shaped gland in men that produces the seminal fluid that nourishes and transports sperm.
- Androgen: Any group of male hormones, including testosterone, that control the development and maintenance of male characteristics.
Side Effects
Common side effects of androgen deprivation therapy include hot flashes, impotence, loss of sexual desire, and osteoporosis. More serious side effects can include cardiovascular disease and diabetes.
See Also
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