Rising PSA on docataxel

[joann48]

we just got the PSA results after the second dose of docataxel: it went from 59 to 65 after the first round of chemo now it’s 72 after the second : we are so down and of course it’s the weekend and can’t speak to anyone until Monday. His ALP did drop from 122 to 104. The first time he had chemo 2 1/2 years ago he had a really good response. Anyone have experience and what will they do next. We are running out of options. 😭😭😭😭

[Hidden]

I wouldn't panic about the PSA increases, they are not that large. The PSA is just one indication and doesn't mean the treatment is failing. The Alkaline Phosphatase is going down and that's positive.

If he had a good response last time, there's a good chance he will respond again. There is also a "second-line" chemotherapy called Cabazitaxel that is often given if/when Docetaxel fails.

These are things to discuss with his doctor. Wishing him the best.

[ctarleton]

After discussing other FDA approved treatments, if you might want to look into possible Phase I/II Clinical Trials at MSKCC, this tailored results list might be of some help as you consider "next steps". Perhaps arrange direct interviews with the Principal Investigators and discuss appropriateness, eligibility, etc.?

mskcc.org/cancer-care/clini...

Hope the results start to improve on Docetaxel, after so many earlier treatments. Keep watching those lab tests closely, particularly for the blood cells of different types.

How are YOU doing as Caregiver? What's your biggest problem right now as a Caregiver?

Maybe you can lean a bit more on the Patient Support people at MSKCC now. Here's a link with a couple of short videos.

mskcc.org/experience/caregi...

Charles

[joann48 in reply to ctarleton]

Thank you. My husband is a patient at msk. We have been trying to qualify for a trial but are still waiting. I think the most difficult part is the roller coaster ride. Thanks again

[j-o-h-n in reply to joann48]

If you don't mind saying, who is your husband's oncologist at MSKcc. Mine is Dr. Michael Morris.

Good luck, Good Health and Good Humor.

j-o-h-n Sunday 02/17/2019 9:37 PM EST

[whatsinaname]

Hi SsamO,

1) Along with the Zytiga, do you also take Prednisone ? Has your blood sugar shot up as a result of Prednisone ?

2) Did you take a PSMA PET-CT scan after your 6 cycles of chemo (docetaxel) ?

Thank you very much.

[whatsinaname]

Thank you for your detailed reply, SsamO, much obliged.

It appears that Zytiga has managed to subdue your PSA to a large extent. Good for you. Lets hope this continues for a long long time. All the very best.

I have completed 6 cycles of docetaxel and am now going to be doing an F-18 DCFPyl scan to figure out whether to continue with chemo or move on to something else like abiraterone . Thanks for asking.