To scan or not to scan

[Godsheal]

Hi, I’m a Mpca patient on Lupron and Aberaterone and going on 7 years with PSA undetectable. The spread was to iliac lymph node chain close to my prostate. All is going well and live life pretty normal. I have an upcoming visit for infusion and bloodwork coming up in a couple of weeks and am thinking about asking for a new Cat scan. What do you all think? Is it time or should I leave well enough alone. ✌️❤️🙏

[MJCA]

Hi,

Obviously I read your post. You stated, “The spread was to iliac lymph node chain close to my prostate”. Was that 7 years ago upon your initial diagnosis? If that’s the case and your PSA is undetectable, another scan at this time would not be deemed “medically necessary”. That would mean no insurance will pay for a scan because your PSA falls within the parameters of not requiring additional testing and/or treatment. Just my take. I’ve been around the block a few times.

All the best! May your PSA remain undetectable!

[Godsheal in reply to MJCA]

Even if my oncologist approves it?

[MJCA in reply to Godsheal]

Maybe so. I don’t know where you live, your age nor what type of insurance you have. Filling out a bio is helpful to others. If you can get a scan, opt for a PSMA-PET it’s the best one out there for those of us with PCa.

[Spagnoli12 in reply to Godsheal]

Cancer can spread despite an undetectable psa. For peace of mind or just information do the scan. We did. They approved it based on the understanding that some PC spread does not alter the psa. Appeal it if they say no. Your doctor should know low psa doesn't always mean you're good to go. I'm an advocate. I fought them and got approval.

[Tall_Allen]

For what purpose?

[pskp00 in reply to Tall_Allen]

Are you asking this in regards to the scan or in regards to the comment of taking a break from meds?

[Tall_Allen in reply to pskp00]

New CT scan.

[Godsheal]

Curiosity mainly. They ran several scans in a he beginning to check shrinkage.. .just to see where it’s at.? I mean it’s been 7 years. Maybe I could take a break from meds?

[dmt1121]

It really depends on your personal desire for imaging based on what you currently know. I would say that a PSMA scan is much more valuable than a CT scan, unless you have a specific tumor you want to monitor.

If it were me, I would enjoy life and when your PSA rises enough for an accurate PSMA scan, I would do that.

Good luck and th happiest of holidays!

[NecessarilySo]

I would say that if PSA is stable and undetectable (<0.1) then you need not scan. Scan if PSA rises significantly. In other words, use PSA as a guide. Scans cannot see everything, especially if microscopic. Keep aware of emergence of any pain in the area in question.

[j-o-h-n]

Some guys like to wear a belt and wear suspenders (braces for you English folks) at the same time. It's like wearing a rubber and pulling out....it's all a matter of taste (pun here?)

Please update your bio. All info is voluntary but it helps you and helps us too. Thanks!!!

Enjoy Christmas...

Good Luck, Good Health and Good Humor.

j-o-h-n