Need help understanding bone density scan.

[JazzMan42]

Had my first DXA Bone Density Scan and it scared the bejeebubs out of me when I read the report. My problem is I don't understand whether it is a serious issue, what may have caused it, and how to fix it..

First, my journey so far: November 2018 TURP with biopsy showed G9 Stage 5 with metastases in the vertebra, ribs and pelvis. Started lupron and zytiga/prednisone in December. Showed some elevated ALT and AST so cut dose on zytiga from 1000mg to 750mg. Liver numbers back to normal.

The DXA Scan showed I have osteoporosis which is news to me. Here is where I am mystified: Lumbar spine T-Score -2.4, Left hip T -2.2, Right hip T -2.0, Right femoral neck T -2.6

Are these numbers really troublesome? Could they have been the result of my cancer meds? I have been taking large doses of calcium and D3. Are there any other remedies to deal with these numbers? I am seeing my MO next week but would like to have some questions ready for him.

My impression of this PCa journey is: "If it 'aint one thing it's another". Thank you brothers for this wonderful place for answers.

[BarronS]

I can't interpret the numbers but I would recommend asking your doctor about zometa. Zometa helps strengthen the bones and was shown to have a survival advantage for men that had bone mets.

All the best.

[Hidden]

I’m not being a smart ass , but stage #5 is death, so you were probably #4. I too have the same fears And ignorance of how to interpret bone scans. Let your dr tell you. Yes, osteo is directly due to treatments and adt. They told me I lost 15% last year. At that rate I figure I’ll be a slug in about five years. You’re correct dammed if you do dammed if you don’t .. Keep truckin..

[Hidden in reply to Hidden]

That is if I’m even still here.

[NPfisherman in reply to Hidden]

You'll be here....we have an appointment...

Don Pescado

[Hidden in reply to NPfisherman]

Like the blues brothers..😂

[BarronS in reply to Hidden]

You can't die Lulu. You're too much of a treasure.

[Hidden in reply to BarronS]

Nobody is going to live forever..nor should we... ones man trash is another’s treasure.but thank you . I used to think that i had the “Midas touch “ ..now I am just in deep appreciation to be as well off as I am in every aspect. My treasures lies with the friendships I forge with others on the similar path .. and the love I receive everyday at home.. Take care buddy... enjoy this weekend ..

[JazzMan42 in reply to Hidden]

Thanks for the heads up about stage 5. It must be 4 or else how would I have been able to post anything? My mixup occurred as my pathology report said "grade group 5". Still new to this condition and the incredible amount of technical language. Best advice as you say, Keep truckin!

[Hidden in reply to JazzMan42]

It can be info overload.....for sure.. follow your Dr.’s advice.. live well ...

[Hidden in reply to JazzMan42]

I’m no musician , but I do love to listen to Mose Allison and others .. keep on truckin 🤙🏼

[tango65]

Osteoporosis is diagnosed when the T score is -2.5 SD below the mean.

bones.nih.gov/health-info/b...

ADT and Zytiga could cause osteoporosis. Patients in ADT, anti androgens etc should be treated with denosumab or zoledronic acid.

The risk of fractures could be estimated using the FRAX tool:

sheffield.ac.uk/FRAX/tool.a...

[GP24]

You are right, Nalakrats:

nytimes.com/2019/04/09/heal...

I read it is approved for women only.

[GP24]

In Japan it is approved for both women and men. I assume this will be case in Europe as well. The FDA may approve it for the treatment of men in the future.

[Break60]

Shouldn’t xgeva be in play for this?

[j-o-h-n]

"skirt" --- your'e so tricky....

Good Luck, Good Health and Good Humor.

j-o-h-n Saturday 04/13/2019 12:48 PM EDT

[j-o-h-n]

To J M born in 42?

Diagnosis of "osteoporosis" (hey that rhymes) is to remind you that you're over 40 and to give up touch football.... (touching other things, "depends". If you need them or don't - by the case that is).

Good Luck, Good Health and Good Humor.

j-o-h-n Saturday 04/13/2019 1:08 PM EDT

[JazzMan42 in reply to j-o-h-n]

Yes j-o-h-n, born in 42. How about you?

[j-o-h-n in reply to JazzMan42]

February 29, 1944. Holy Chit I'm only 19 1/2 years old.

Good Luck, Good Health and Good Humor.

j-o-h-n Sunday 04/14/2019 4:50 PM EDT

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

Young at heart...

[jsmith2506]

I have osteoporosis and we added an endocrinologist to the mix. Found out I had hypothyroidism for which I take levothyroxine. Osteoporosis has improved and currently stable between bone scans....just a thought.....

[Hidden]

Women have more T than I do . Not much difference at this point. If needed give me the Evenity that I seek FDA?