I want to update my information and see if others have similar results for their advanced prostrate cancer as mine listed below and what they feel the best course of action more importantly is there anyone with the same or similar stats that have kept this beat at bay for many years and can provide some advice and reassurance. As I stated in my original post scared to death and have recently started diazepam for trouble sleeping and being depressed... but also need something during the day as I do have pity parties for myself and break out crying at times begging for comfort from my faith in the God. It's been a struggle to find any joy in the past few months.
My original clinical diagnosis was at age 47 (2012) I was diagnosed with advanced prostrate cancer - so I have been living with this SOB for about 6 years thus far.... My first treatment was a radical prostatectomy. This lowered my PSA levels to nearly indictable but NOT indictable ever. In 2016 my PSA levels rose and was sent to see a radiation oncologist by my urologist. I was told I should begin radiation for 7 weeks form April 2016 to May 2016 approximately. That did lower my PSA for about a year to nearly indictable taen every 3 months) were: .06; .10; 0.50 and then most recently in November 2017 1.41.
I received call from urologist office telling me the information - I was devastated... but the nurse who called explained that my urologist would meet with me in a week and likely start me on ADT therapy probably Eligard according to her but didn't want to answer any of my other questions or concerns.
My initial readings were: GLEASON 4 + 4 =8/10 - LEFT LATERAL APEX 20% with robotic prostatectomy bilat NS disease appeared organ confined grossly. Excellent Anastomosis NVB appeared preserved bilat FINAL PATH = MARGIN NEG GL 7 WITH Tertiary 5/5.
So, for those who may have similar circumstances based on that data and timeline.... what in nearly 2018 is the best most aggressive way to treat this recent rise experienced in PSA to 1.41? Should Eligard be the treatment or now to try and lower PSA - any doctors or suggestions as to how best to attack this? Is there anything you can also ask your primary doctor or urologist that they can prescribe to take during the day to help with the depression and worry so that one can focus and move on with life to some extent? Thanks so much for anyone who replied to my original post I just wanted to provide more detailed information as since joining a week ago I have found great advice, those who have uplifted my spirits and especially stories of those living with the disease for many years and still hanging in there and battling like champions and winning the battle up to this point. I pray and am thankful and grateful for all the love that people show each other for the most part on this site. Thanks.
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RKWade
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You may want to ask your doctor about Xgeva and Provenge. Xgeva helps to keep your bones strong by fending off attempts to prevent the normal bone healing process. Provenge is an immunotherapy drug. When Provenge is added to your blood it enhances its ability to fight prostate cancer. Kind of like super blood. I just completed the Provenge treatment. It's three rounds over six weeks. I get an Xgeva shot once every three months.
The best advice I can give is to not put so much emphasis on your PSA number. Mine has bounced around a bunch over the past two years. What matters more is how you feel. There's tons of treatments out there now for prostate cancer and more on the horizon. Stay positive and stay busy so your not sitting around idle thinking about it.
I think the first thing you need to do is to find a medical oncologist who specializes in prostate cancer. A urologist is trained as a surgeon. He may or may not keep up with the latest science in medical/drug treatments. Surgery is finished for you and you would now do best with a medical oncology specialist to consider your situation and prescribe drugs for you.
Many oncologists are now prescribing more advanced treatments than just Eligard, for example an Eligard like treatment plus chemotherapy (something that a urologist is unable to administer.) Whether a more advanced treatment would be better for you would be something that you'd need a real expert to determine.
Here is a link to the list of National Cancer Institute "Designated Cancer Centers", i.e., places that do research as well as treatment and are considered by NCI to be the best places to be treated.
Hello RK, I understand the depression because I had it too, it seemed everything is dark and gloom but it isn't , I also had 4+4 gleason =8 . high risk, but the stress from all the negativity can actually make it worse. I had a friend who died recently and he was supposed to come over for a visit and I was on Facebook and saw he had passed, I must have cried most of that day. the next day my pelvic area ached so I knew I had to take control of my illness, stay positive , work with the doctors and learn as much as I can knowledge is power for us to live longer. that is my approach also having faith in Jesus, now I have less stress.
I was diagnosed in 1999 at age 55. A summary of my treatments since then is in my profile. It might give you an idea of what to expect in the future by way of progression and treatment. Though each of us is unique.
I too would advise you to get yourself an Oncologist who specializes in Pca. Next stop thinking about your Pca and enjoy the many many years ahead of you. Smile and laugh as much as possible and always remember "the more you cry the less you pee".
Joel you’re awesome and a blessing. The advice makes sense and the encouragement and willingness to respond can never be repaid. I can’t even thank you enough for giving a damn and taking your time to reach out to those who are seeking answers. I hope God blesses you and you have a wonderful day.
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Eligard side effects / effectiveness ?
Failed RP & SRT; Negative PSMA PET
mcrpc , stage iv with aggressive treatments
Irratable
Thoughts on upcoming treatment of recurrence?
