Timing of DEXA scans and CT scans

[BillyJack25]

I am on lupron with mets to some lymph nodes. My psa is currently 0.13. I just had an appointment with my oncologist's nurse who says I do not need scans till my psa starts to rise as my prostate cancer is currently under control. Any thoughts on this? I thought you should have scans more often especially if you have mets. I am only able to see the oncologist every 6 months and the nurse inbetween.

[Tall_Allen]

The time to get a scan is when a change of therapy is under consideration. For example, if you have been taking Zytiga and your PSA has risen and is now over 2, it may be time to switch to something else.

If you have been on ADT for a while, it is a good idea to get a DEXA scan to see if you have osteoporosis. If you do, Zometa or Xgeva may be a good idea.

[BillyJack25 in reply to Tall_Allen]

Thanks TA

[Hidden]

It’s always good to have markers on changes...... however, I am biased as the two dozen or so sets of scans that I had were as a result of a clinical trial. Documentation for the researcher and information for me......

Enjoy life,

GD

[j-o-h-n]

I get a blood test every time I get a Lupron shot.... every 3 months......

Good Luck, Good Health and Good Humor.

j-o-h-n Thursday 12/24/2020 10:37 PM EST

[j-o-h-n]

Lupron shot at 9:00am blood test at 9:30am

Good Luck, Good Health and Good Humor.

j-o-h-n Thursday 12/24/2020 11:06 PM EST

[j-o-h-n]

That's how I always get the treatment.............

Good Luck, Good Health and Good Humor.

j-o-h-n Thursday 12/24/2020 11:07 PM EST

[BruceSF]

Hi Billy,Has anyone suggested that you add Zytiga (generic name is abiraterone acetate) to the Lupron? There was a study called STAMPEDE that showed considerably better results for node positive men who added Zytiga to Lupron very early in treatment.

I go to UCSF for treatment and everyone with lymph node mets is treated this way. In fact, you might also benefit from radiation to the prostate and lymph nodes. You’ve done ok getting down to 0.17, but there’s a good chance Zytiga will get it lower and keep it there longer.

[BillyJack25 in reply to BruceSF]

Thanks BruceSF. I will ask my oncologist about that.