Early prostate cancer usually does not cause any symptoms. But as the tumor grows it may spread from the prostate to surrounding areas causing a variety of symptoms. As a result of metastasis to the spine, for example, many men experience pain in the lower back, pelvis, or upper thighs. (To get a clearer picture of prostate cancer and its stages, see Grading and Staging: What the numbers mean.)

Symptoms of more advanced cases of prostate cancer may also include:

• Interruption of urinary flow (stopping and starting)
• Inability to urinate
• Difficulty starting or stopping urination
• Frequent urination (especially at night)
• Blood in the urine
• Pain or burning during urination

Stopping testicular production of testosterone with an LH-RH agonist such as Lupron Depot may help relieve many of these advanced prostate cancer symptoms. Individual results may vary.

Learn about diagnosis of prostate cancer.