Tumor Flare in Prostate Cancer

Luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone (LHRH) analogs are one type of hormone therapy used for prostate cancer. These medications lower the amount of testosterone made by your testicles. When starting LHRH therapy, the testosterone levels may go up for a short time 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 lessen the tumor flare when you start hormone therapy. Tumor flare does not last long and will go away as your testosterone level goes down.

When should I call my care team?

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