It has been a while since I posted . I can't help but feel let down by a treatment plan put in place without a diagnostic scan and am waiting for a meeting to discuss my 'journey' .
I have updated my profile with the details but, in summary , I am Gleeson 9 (4 + 5 )with extra prostatic extension basal margin positive . PT3bN1. My PET scan on 22/10 showed PC in a few small lymph nodes in the presacral and left iliac region . No detectable extra pelvic disease
I commenced Decapeptyl ( 6 monthly injections ) on 08/11/24. I am getting the anticipated hot flushes regularly during the day but also night sweats up to 5 times a night which are leaving me very tired . Black Cohosh and Sage tablets have had little or no effect .
In my meeting with the Oncologist on 21/11 I was advised that the PRT positive lymph nodes are immediately adjacent the small bowel and that this increases the risk of side effects with salvage RT. The recommendation was not to proceed with RT. The possibility of additional Systemic HT was discussed but is not proceeding at the moment due to the potential for more side effects .
I had further blood tests 2 weeks ago which returned a PSA of 0.06 and Testosterone of 0.6 . My post op PSA was 1.6.This seems good news.
I requested a further meeting with my Oncolgist. This is on 20/2. I want to discuss the results and also ask about any other treatment options . Can the PC not adjacent the bowel be treated with RT ? Is Proton beam therapy(out with the NHS and expensive ) a possibility ?
I would appreciate any suggestions for questions to ask or of potential treatments.
Thanks in anticipation .
Hello Magpie29
Wow, I am so sorry to read of your situation - here's a few random thoughts:
* Hot sweats - contact your GP there is prescription medication they can give you to hold these at bay.
* Can they give you a risk percentage for the RT to the lymph nodes near to the bowel? Is it worth accepting the risk?
* I have no idea where you live but the NHS has Proton Beam facilities at UCLH (London) and The Christie (Manchester) can you not get a referral?
* Would Chemotherapy do the business and if not why not?
* Are there any trials open to you at present - link here - Cancer Research UK - Prostate Cancer Trials.
* Is it worth asking for a second opinion, somewhere with cancer specialists like The Royal Marsden.
I hope some of these make sense, I am sure other folk may well have some better ideal - please do let us know how you get on.
Best wishes - Brian.
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Ah yes, So sorry about today's result - City are my second team after. Oldham Athletic.
Best wishes - Brian.
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