Mechanisms responsible for reduced erythropoiesis during androgen deprivation therapy in men with prostate cancer

Abstract

Androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) is a mainstay of treatment for prostate cancer (PCa). As androgens stimulate erythropoiesis, ADT is associated with a reduction in hematocrit, which in turn contributes to fatigue and related morbidity. However, the mechanisms involved in ADT-induced reduction in erythropoiesis remain unclear. We conducted a 6-mo prospective cohort study and enrolled men with PCa about to undergo ADT (ADT-Group) and a control group of men who had previously undergone prostatectomy for localized PCa and were in remission (Non-ADT Group). All participants had normal testosterone levels at baseline. Fasting blood samples were collected at baseline, 12 wk, and 24 wk after initiation of ADT; samples were obtained at the same intervals from enrollment in the Non-ADT group. Blood count, iron studies, erythropoietin, erythroferrone, and hepcidin levels were measured. Seventy participants formed the analytical sample (31 ADT, 39 Non-ADT). ADT was associated with a significant reduction in erythrocyte count (estimated mean difference = −0.2×106cells/µl, 95%CI = −0.3 to −0.1×106cells/µl, P < 0.001), hematocrit (−1.9%, 95%CI = −2.7 to −1.1%, P < 0.001), and hemoglobin (−0.6 g/dl, 95%CI = −0.8 to −0.3 g/dl, P < 0.001). Serum hepcidin concentration increased in the ADT-group (18 ng/ml, P < 0.001); however, iron concentrations did not change (−1.1 µg/dl, P = 0.837). Ferritin levels increased in men on ADT (60 ng/ml, P < 0.001). Iron binding capacity, transferrin saturation, erythroferrone, and erythropoietin did not change. Nine men undergoing ADT developed new-onset anemia. In conclusion, reduced proliferation of marrow erythroid progenitors leads to ADT-induced reduction in erythropoiesis. Future studies should evaluate the role of selective androgen receptor modulators in the treatment of ADT-induced anemia.