PET Scans and CT Scans Post Chemo

Hi All! I have a question regarding the frequency of PET Scans and CT Scans post chemo. My husband finished with chemo on August 29 and had a PET scan and CT scan bone mets all clear/healing bone. Onc was satisfied with results and told my husband his PSA has significantly decreasedn He' scheduled for anothe PET Scan and CT Scan, 3 mos later. My husband is feeling much better post chemo. Leg swelling, leg pain and cough has gotten much better. He's improving every day! Is this protocol? In good health!

[Tall_Allen]

What decision depends on the results? It has significant full-body exposure to radiation so you don't want them too often - just when needed.

[MelaniePaul]

Personally, I think that scans should be repeated at least every three month to monitor the cancer closely and to be able to respond to changes quickly. There is no point in postponing scans just because the patient isn't in pain, feeling better or not symptomatic in any way because the cancer could still be growing. Good luck, Mel.

[Hidden in reply to MelaniePaul]

Very true! Thankfully he is not postponing.

[Hawk56]

I has a C11 Choline scan at Mayo in Jan 17 after failure of surgery and SRT, identified four pelvic lymph nodes, fortunately no bone or organ involvement...I started six cycles of chemotherapy, 18 months of ADT at the end of January, then 25 radiation treatments in July. I had subsequent C11 Choline scans in Mar 17, June 17 and Feb 18. My last treatment was in May, so I'm six months since my last 90 day Lupron shot which in reality means I'm a month or two off of treatment

We agreed no further scans at this point since PSA dropped to <.1 with first Lupron and chemotherapy treatment and stayed there. As long as my PSA remains undetectable Mayo is ok with no scanning. My 30 Oct labs were PS <.1, T returning, at 135 (it was <3 throughout treatment).

Kevin

[Hidden in reply to Hawk56]

Thank you for the information. I hope you continue to do well! In good health