I don’t know what to make of it all!

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Hi all,

I’m just looking for your views on this. I’ve been having PSA tests for the past 13 years. My first test was 10.5. I thought it was a routine blood test and wasn’t told my PSA was being tested. I believe I ejaculated on the morning of the test, so that was a possible explanation. I was referred to Urology who recommended another test in a few weeks. It had subsequently dropped to 3.2. Therefore, I was advised to have my PSA monitored regularly going forward. So….I’ve been having PSA tests every 12 to 18 months since and they’ve all been within the normal range for my age; until now! Last month it had risen to 7.2 - basically tripled from 18 months previous (2.4 - At that time I also had a DRE that was normal). I was referred for a MRI and had my results today. The consultant called and said my prostate was double the size than normal. Apparently my elevated PSA isn’t that bad considering the density of my prostate. However, this is maybe all academic because he said the MRI showed a “highly suspicious” area on the left side. He didn’t elaborate, but I’ve been referred for a biopsy next Thursday. I really didn’t expect my latest PSA result to bring me to this stage. I’m convinced I’ve got cancer and worried sick that it might be aggressive as the PSA has shot up over a short period of time. Any advice would be much appreciated. Thanks.

  • Hi Greyboy and welcome.

    7.2 not particularly high so Def doesn't mean aggressive but obviously the biopsy will confirm.

    One thing u could check, suspicious area, any idea of size in mm also is it near the gland edge.

    If the answer is , not too near the gland edge and not particularly large then should be fairly easy to treat even if it was aggressive.

    Don't forget unless the biopsy confirms it is cancer it may not be.

    Let us know how it goes 

    Best wishes 

    Steve 

  • Hi  , my friend Steve ( ) has summed it up perfectly.  I would add, that a few of us were diagnosed with much higher PSA scores (mine was 74 and aggressive) nine years ago.  Please come back when you get your biopsy results and we can help you interpret them.  Don’t read Dr Google!  The results may take 3/4 weeks and the waiting is the hardest part.

    Best wishes, David

    Please remember that I am not medically trained and the above are my personal views.

  • Hello ,

    Your PSA score is not a direct measure of how agressive PC is so I wouldn't worry about the rate of increase being indicative of anything sinister at all.

    Because your PSA has been monitored for some time and has only now risen above normal it's most likely that, if PC was to be diagnosed, and that's not certain yet, it's most likely to be early stage and easily treatable with curative intent. 

    I recall how worrying this is when you're being investigated but do try not to get carried away with dark thoughts.

    Do let us know how you get on.

    All the best, Derek.

    Made in 1956. Tested to destruction.

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  • Thanks, David. Great to hear you are still doing well. 

  • Thanks, Derek. Best wishes and take care.