My Prostate Journey And Situation

[lcchan0001]

I am 65 years old. I was diagnosed with G8 prostate cancer just a week ago with PSA of 5.2. My 3T MRI shows a 0.5 cc tumor in the peripheral zone abutting the capsule but without evidence of extracapsular extension. I did a 6-needle biopsy that came back positive with 4+4 Gleason score. Although the MRI provides no evidence of spread, a CT Urogram and bone scan have been scheduled to see if there is any.

I had a successful laser surgery in 2007 for enlarged prostate. At the time my PSA was 1.0. Since then I have been keeping track of my PSA levels every month or two and saw it rising steadily to 2.0 in 2012, then 4.2 in 2016, and finally 5.2 in August 2017, in 5 months ( see attached chart ). Digital Rectal Examines have all been normal throughout this time. I have a very healthy lifestyle. My diet is low carb with careful control of nutritional parameters such as carb and sugar. I exercise regularly take various supplements to help my body and prostate. I am generally very healthy and usually go to see my doctor once a year for check up.

At this time of 1 week after diagnosis, I have a good urologist but I am trying to find a local oncologist in the central FL ( Orlando area ) to help me through the treatment process. I have done research on treatment options and am leaning toward Dr. Bob Leibowitz's Triple Hormone Blockade protocol. I would really appreciate it if someone the community can provide advice.

Thank you.

[herb1]

HI, I ain't no expert BUT that won't keep me from commenting! First, in spite of everything, your psa doubling time is not bad, from 1 to 5.2 in 8 yrs (more or less). You might want to go to the Memorial Sloan Kettering site and do a real psa doubling time. Triple hormone blockade is an ok approach, but the cancer ain't gonna go away and you are relatively young. At some point the hormones will cease to be effective and you will be older (too old?) for aggressive treatment. If it were me, and depending on the scans you are getting, i think I would be more aggressive, at least with radiation to wipe out the cancer in/on the prostate. Might even go for surgery...if I were as young as you. Again, I am not a physician so take my comments accordingly.

herb

[lcchan0001 in reply to herb1]

Thanks, herb. I think you just provided me good advice. Hopefully, my relative youth and relatively good health can help me pull through this situation.

Luen

[Hidden]

How'd you get your doctor / insurance to authorize almost monthly PSA testing, particularly when those readings started out in the normal range? Just wondering.

[lcchan0001 in reply to Hidden]

I paid for it myself and ordered through Life Extension (LEF.com).