The Effect of TNF-α Inhibitors Therapy on the Growth of the Prostate Gland & Cost-Effectiveness of Biparametric Magnetic Resonance Imaging as a Front-line Test for Prostate Cancer Screening

Abstract

The prostate gland is a walnut shaped organ that is situated in the true pelvis, and inferior to the bladder. It typically weighs 20-40 grams and is one of few unique organs that only exist in males. Most men will suffer from prostate problems at one point in their lives. The most common problem is benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), the more worrisome is prostate cancer. In our two projects, we utilized magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to evaluate novel questions related to both conditions. In the first paper, we used MRI scans to explore the effect of using tumor necrosis factor- α (TNF-α) inhibitors on the size and growth of the prostate gland. While TNF-α inhibitors are not prescribed as a treatment for BPH, TNF-α has a recognized role in the prostate and BPH microenvironment. Very few studies have looked at the effect of TNF-α inhibitors on the prostate gland in a clinical setting. In the second paper we explored the cost effectiveness of implementing biparametric MRI (bpMRI) scans as a front-line modality for screening of prostate cancer. Screening for prostate cancer is an area of active research and changing of practices as our understanding of the disease evolves. Unlike breast and lung cancers, imaging-based prostate cancer screening is still not well established.