Healthcare with Confidence
Immunotherapy for Prostate Cancer in Israel: Personalized Treatment and Hope for Advanced Cases
Immunotherapy is a groundbreaking approach to treating prostate cancer by activating the body’s own immune system to recognize and destroy cancer cells. This innovative treatment has opened new possibilities, especially for patients with advanced or treatment-resistant prostate cancer.
How Is Prostate Cancer Treated?
The prostate is a small gland located just below the bladder in men. It surrounds the urethra and plays an essential role in the reproductive system by producing fluid that nourishes and protects sperm.
Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers in men. In its early stages, it is often treated with:
- Surgery (prostatectomy)
- Radiation therapy
- Hormone therapy, which reduces the levels of androgens (male hormones) that fuel tumor growth
In advanced stages, chemotherapy is often used to control the spread of the disease.
In recent years, however, immunotherapy has emerged as a promising option for selected patients.
What Is Immunotherapy for Prostate Cancer?
Immunotherapy, also known as immuno-oncology, involves the use of drugs that stimulate or support the immune system to fight cancer more effectively. Prostate tumors often develop mechanisms to “hide” from immune cells. Immunotherapy helps “unmask” these cells, allowing the body to recognize and attack the cancer.
Approved Immunotherapy Options
1. Sipuleucel-T (Provenge)
This dendritic cell-based vaccine was approved by the FDA in 2010. It is used to treat certain cases of metastatic prostate cancer and has been shown to extend survival in some patients. It is considered one of the first personalized cancer vaccines developed for solid tumors.
2. Pembrolizumab (Keytruda®)
Keytruda is an immune checkpoint inhibitor that targets the PD-1 receptor on T-cells. By blocking this pathway, it enhances the immune system’s ability to destroy cancer cells.
In Israel and worldwide, Keytruda may be considered for:
- Patients with metastatic or advanced prostate cancer
- Those with genomic instability, such as:
- MSI-H (Microsatellite Instability-High)
- dMMR (Mismatch Repair Deficiency)
These are genetic conditions in tumor cells that impair DNA repair. For such patients, checkpoint inhibitors like Keytruda can be effective, especially after other treatments have failed.
Precision Medicine and Molecular Testing in Israel
In leading Israeli oncology centers, personalized immunotherapy is increasingly used. Before starting treatment, patients undergo molecular and genetic testing to:
- Analyze the tumor’s genetic profile
- Identify specific mutations or markers (such as MSI-H or dMMR)
- Determine which immunotherapy or combination treatment may be most effective
This approach allows for targeted, individualized treatment plans, offering greater chances of success and fewer side effects.
Clinical Trials and New Therapies
Israel is actively involved in international and local clinical trials for prostate cancer immunotherapy. These trials explore:
- New immune checkpoint inhibitors
- CAR-T cell therapy (still in early stages for prostate cancer)
- Combination therapies (immunotherapy + hormone therapy or radiation)
Some of these experimental treatments have shown promising results, especially for patients with aggressive or resistant tumors.
Should You Consider Immunotherapy?
Immunotherapy is not suitable for all patients, but it may be recommended if:
- Your prostate cancer has spread or returned after standard treatments
- You have specific genetic mutations identified through testing
- You want to explore advanced, personalized treatment options
Second Opinion and Personalized Consultation in Israel
If you’re not sure whether you’re receiving the most advanced treatment for prostate cancer, or want to explore whether immunotherapy could be right for you, we can help.
Consult with a Leading Israeli Urologic Oncologist. You can receive a second opinion online or schedule an in-person consultation.
Your case will be reviewed individually, and if needed, a customized treatment plan will be created based on the latest clinical knowledge.
How It Can Help?
- Access to advanced genetic and molecular tests
- Review of your current treatment and potential options
- Immunotherapy eligibility assessment
- Help with scheduling appointments and second opinions
