I had a prostate MRI performed on the prostate, that had a power of 1.2T. As I found out later, the minimum tesla is 1.5, which used to be the gold standard, until T3.0 replaced it.
I am limited to 1.5T due to a Linx procedure where a titanium band was placed around the esophagus that had magnetic beads. So a 3.0 T reading is not available.
In short the findings of the radiologist was an enlarged prostate, along with a lesion that they classified as PIRAD 4. PSA reading is 1.57.
My first urologist said to completely disregard the MRI report as it was useless for any kind of opinions on cancer possibilities. In his words use the disc as a bottle holder:) My 2nd urologist, who I have now, did not make any comment other then to say 3.0 was the standard, and wanted to proceed directly with prostate reduction options rather then rule out the PIRAD 4 finding.
My research showed that while 1.2 machines should not be used the reliability of the finding is around 20% compared to 70% on a 3.0 T machine.
At my request, the urologist agreed to do a biopsy of the prostate. My thoughts were that if cancer is present, some prostate reduction strategies may be contra indicated, in addition, it would likely start some sort of decision on how to approach cancer.
At first I thought biopsy was the way to go, but as I approach the date, 10 days away, I am thinking it might not be so clear cut. While the risk of infection is rather low for a transperineal biopsy, there is also a low risk of spread of cancer cells via needle tracts or another word for it needle tract seeding.
At 78 I was considering a better approach might be taking repurposed drugs such as Ivermectin in combination with others that have a low risk of side effects. As a precautionary measure. Or perhaps having the MRI redone using a 1.5T machine?
Any insights would be appreciated.
Thanks
