I have a friend who has had multiple MRIs and biopsies to locate his presumed prostate cancer. His PSA is high, around 20 but fluctuates and this has gone on for a number of years. He had antibiotic therapy but this did not make any difference.
I was wondering if a doctor would prescribe a PET/ PSMA scan to determine if there is prostate cancer present, and would Medicare cover such a test. I recognize there could be some clinical trials that would suffice.
Any thoughts?
Written by
Teddy28
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I had 3 biopsies over 18 months before we hit cancer. I would ask his providers what they can do to expedite a possible solution...like a PSMA/PET scan in his situation. If there are suspicious results from his MRI's he might be able to use that as leverage. How large are the fluctuations? Stay diligent as you are and thanks for helping your friend.
I find outside independent 2nd imaging finding opinions crucial. Currently waiting on 2nd opinion of my recent Pylarify PSMA. Prior to my diagnosis my PSA fluctuated between 5 and 12 for number of years and my DRE's were always clear; all the while my elusive cancer was spreading. All the best for your friend.
Teddy, my biopsy showed cancer present. This allowed my referral to an oncologist (an RO in my case). She ordered my MRI and a Pylarify CT scan. Medicare covered all of my costs. Also, I was able to select the institution that performed the CT scan.
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