Next week is 1st appt with oncologist after 5 sessions SBRT, will get PSA results, 5.2 pre treatment.I thought I'd be stressed out but feel OK, fingers crossed for now.
2 weeks after treatment body functions were back to baseline but I know that could change long term, wish I had a crystal ball.
Your first 3-month post-treatment test will tell you less than you may be imagining. It took me about 3 ½ years for my PSA to reach its nadir.
I’m glad you’re not stressed. I had my three month follow up about five months ago after five SBRT sessions. My psa went from 5.9 to 2.0, so I’m heading in the right direction. My stress was only high before making my decision as to what treatment to choose and which oncologist I felt most comfortable with. Once my decision was made, I never looked back or second guessed my decision. The road ahead may be long with some peaks and valleys, but let’s cherish and embrace the many good moments. Wishing you much joy and peace for years to come.
My experience is very similar to LBRV711's - most stress was researching and deciding on a treatment. Once I chose HDRBT and UofR medicine I never gave it another thought. I'm 4 years out now and because my PSA is still moving around a bit I have opted to get tested every 3 months since post op. Dealing with cancer has certainly changed my outlook on life in general. I no longer have time in my day for people that cause drama and I strive to enjoy each day to the fullest. Being retired has allowed me the opportunity to explore many of the things I wished I'd had the time to do during my working years. I now spend most of my days outside kayaking our local water ways enjoying nature or with my grandchildren who bring constant joy. We are in this for the long haul. Stay strong brother!
I had been on AS for 5 years. When my PSA reached 10.5 it was time for TX. Received 5 fractions-SBRT in July 2020. A couple of weeks ago my PSA was 0.25 with a couple of small bumps over the last 18 months. Libido and erections have been great and since I ejaculate a small amount of semen, I have noticed my orgasms are extremely and intensely enjoyable much, much more prior to SBRT. I have had no other side-effects from TX. Everyone is different as to how a body may or may not respond. I had little stress. I sense part of it was due to my employment within a VA Medical Center before I retired. I also did my homework, research and joined MaleCare. (All of this and support from others was crucial). I try to enjoy every day as it arrives. I'll be 77 in January and my stamina and energy levels are very different today. My mind says I can do something thinking it's 40 and later my body tells my mind it's an idiot! I have been writing my autobiography. My hope is future family generations will preserve the narratives and enjoy reading about my life! Most things in life are out of my control. One thing I can control is how I choose to live today! I enjoy and am grateful for all the little things in life and above all else keep on laughing!
That early PSA won't be telling you much of anything. As Tall Allen already wrote, your PSA will change over time, in a downward manner, hopefully. You can relax...
Heading to MSK today to finalize my treatment with RO, Electra MRI Linac SBRT
can I ask who your RO is? I’m on AS and see Dr. Eastham, but know of McBride, and know Nagar.
Dr Nagar….fantastic bedside manners highly recruited from Weil Cornell. I asked him if I really need the rectal spacer, he said no but for liability purposes they offer it.
I opted out, there’s no proof it provides added protection especially with MRI Linac
my local urology group had me 4+3 unfavorable and ANOTHER core 3+4, THEY WANTED me on 18 months ADT because they was a slight uptake in pelvic node.
MSK downgraded to favorable 3+4, low decipher .29 no adt needed 99% cure rate.
Like they say is where you got first to be treated!!!!
Where would you send your mother…..
Actually I sent her the MSK 15 years ago for a giant colon cancer tumor….Dr. Weiser colorectal cancer surgeon, the kindest cut,laparoscopic , no chemo or nothing no recurrence.
I met Nagar in 2022 when I was diagnosed at the recommendation of the urologist that diagnosed me at NYP. Getting second opinions, I met Dr. Eastham, who has been incredible and deals with prostate mostly. He is a surgeon, but feels that AS is good for me. With some changes, I have seen Nagat more times, and I have always felt comfortable with him. Haven’t seen him since his move, but it’s great for him. Great move on both parts. Please, give my regards, and would love to hear your outcome. It’s José Picayo. If you’d like to chat, I’m available. Wishing you luck with this. I also think that MSK is great.
My second post-radiation PSA reading was MUCH lower than my first. The oncologist told me it can take a year or more before PSA will reach its low point so don't put too much faith in the first reading, one way or the other.
NCCN guidelines for unfavorable intermediate risk
Two week post SBRT update
1st PSA Post SBRT + ADT: A Bounce?
