Recently diagnosed

Hi, I have been on AS for 1.5 years, first thing I would say is don’t t panic, PC is very slow growing so it is unlikely that there has been a sudden big change. PSA can be affected by for example infections so the first thing I would suggest is to get a second PSA test, my PSA at diagnosis was 8 but all recent tests have been around 4.5 so you can get fluctuations.

Hi  MC

That is quite an increase but what's the timescale in weeks between the 2 PSA.

Steve 

Hello MC64 and a warm welcome to our "exclusive club".

As Juddy and Grundo have said, Prostate Cancer is slow growing and we aren't aware of the timescale between the two PSA tests.

My personal opinion on this with a Gleason 7 and a rising PSA of 11.2 it's time for some action. Before jumping the gun I would consider carefully the three possible treatment routes you may be offered:

Surgery to remove. HT/RT with a view to being curative and Brachytherapy.

All three route have side effects - some temporary and some life changing. I would do my research, read the posts on this forum, ask questions and write a list of "For and Against" for each possible treatment.

Having done my research I would return to the specialists, advise them of your anxiety at the rising PSA and tell them which way you would like to go. I know - it's simple on paper - and it's down to personal opinion - but that's why the Community is here.

I will throw my hat in the corner for the HT/RT route and if you click on the icon of the beach you can follow my journey down that route - I did have a couple of issues on the way.

Well you did say

MC64 said:

Has anyone been in a similar predicament or have any thoughts.... 

Ask what you want - we are here to help. Best wishes and good luck - Brian.

Thank you ;)

It was 3 months.. thanks ;)

Thank you, I'm not coping too well...

As Juddy has said don't panic, could be a blip.

Stats are still low

Wait a couple of months for another PSA

Also quite important to see what the MRI scan says 

IE tumour size and location within the gland, u can ask for this info

Best wishes

Steve 

Thanks Steve

Hi MC64

A cancer diagnosis isn't great and comes as a shock to the system. A fact I use quite often on here is 98% of men diagnosed with Prostate Cancer die WITH it not of it. A few pointes for a little extra help:

* We as a community are here for you - you can post what you want - within reason - you can tell us how you feel, you can complain about the price of petrol - anything - we are here for you 24/7. Feel free to vent your feelings here.

* Do you have a local "Maggie's" centre. They offer amazing support and you can just drop in - contact 0300 123 1801 or e-mail enquiries@maggiescentres.org.

* MacMillan's have a "buddy service" your where "buddy" will call you once a week to have a chat and talk about any issues and anxieties you may have - details are in this link

 https://www.macmillan.org.uk/cancer-information-and-support/get-help/emotional-help/macmillan-buddies

* If you are struggling to cope ring our fantastic help line on 0808 808 00 00 (8am - 8pm 7 days a week). They have some magic call handlers.

* if you want a private word my personal mailbox is open - you can contact me direct without the need for a friend request.

I hope the above provides a little extra support - if I can help with anything else - just let me know.

Best wishes - Brian.

Thank you Brian ;)