Clinical practice guidelines for PSA testing and early management of test-detected prostate cancer

摘要

There is a consensus among relevant peak professional bodies, government and non-government organisations in Australia, that Australian clinical practice guidelines for prostate specific antigen (PSA) testing and early management of test-detected prostate cancer are needed. Work is underway on systematic reviews of the evidence. Guideline development based on systematic review covers clinical questions relating to underlying risk of prostate cancer, PSA testing, investigation of men with positive tests and early management choices, the last relating particularly to choice among active surveillance, watchful waiting and immediate definitive treatment. National Health and Medical Research Council processes are being followed and the council’s approval of the finished product will be sought. Public consultation on draft guidelines is expected to start in December 2014 and the council’s approval is expected to be obtained in June 2015 or later. Planning for guideline dissemination and implementation is essential.