Tumor Flare in Prostate Cancer

Luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone (LHRH) analogs are one type of hormone therapy used for prostate cancer. They are drugs that lower the amount of testosterone made by your testicles. When starting LHRH therapy, the testosterone levels may go up briefly before they start to go down. This may cause a brief increase in symptoms from your cancer or cause new symptoms. This brief increase is called "tumor flare".

How is it managed?

A flare can be managed by a second type of hormonal therapy called "anti-androgens" which can reduce the tumor flare when you begin hormone therapy. Tumor flare does not last long and will go away as your testosterone level goes down.

When should I contact my care team?

You should talk with your care provider if your side effects worsen, if you start having new side effects, or if you are having any new pain after starting hormone therapy.