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Posted 3/25/2009 1:39 AM (GMT 0)
Age 56   12/22/08 DRE   1/12/2009 PSA 3.4     6 weeks later PSA 3.8  March 9th biopsy.  Monday March 23 received results 3 out of 12 Prostatic Adenocarcinoma one was 80% second 40%  third 2% Gleason 6

   Going for a second opinion 3/30 with Erik Goluboff Director of Urology in Columbia Presbyterian in NY. Looking for a recommendation for a third MD and opinion. To add to my confusion 2 medical studies were published questioning the benefit of being observed vs being treated for patients diagnosed with localized prostate cancer. This includes a statement by the Chief Medical Officer of the American Cancer Society. This report conflicts with what my MD is saying,and is causing much distress and confusion. Thanks for any feedback, Jake

Post Edited (Jake T) : 3/24/2009 8:06:25 PM (GMT-6)

Posted 3/25/2009 2:35 AM (GMT 0)
It appears you are catching it early and that is in your favor. On the other hand an 80% and 40% sample would indicate some possible substantial growth. It also appears your rising PSA would indicate growth as well. There are many opinions about all of this, but of course it is your life - as you know.

You are in the right place to do a lot of research and reading. There are many links from this sight as well as experienced and helpful people with a lot of savy about prostate cancer. No one can tell you what to do, but with a Gleason 6 and the biopsy you described you have some time to consider all the alternatives, but I would not wait too long. Admittedly, I don't have a track record for watching and waiting - I did not have that option. I am not sure how viable your option is in that regard. The blessing of catching these things early and treating them early is the best long term hope - I believe. Besides, for me the most difficult time mentally was making my decision. Once that was made things improved. I wish you well.
Posted 3/25/2009 4:05 AM (GMT 0)
I was dx ini Feb 2008 but did not have surgery until Dec. Besides my Urologist, I went also the UCSF for their opinion and ultra sound. I talked also to the VA urologist before I made up my mind to go for surgery. There are lots of option, so weigh them carfeully to your benefit. One says the other is better, but it's only could make the right decision for your self. Also, as you read through the posts here, it's different case for every individual. Good luck and always stop by to check this forum. There's a lot information here. I wish I found this sooner before I had my surgery.
Posted 3/25/2009 10:48 AM (GMT 0)
Ask yourself, maybe look at yourself in the mirror, if you will be able to DEAL (live peacefully) with the fact going forward that the cancer is there, will probably expand, might be close to capsular penetration if near the wall of the prostate, and probably won't decrease in size. Basically ask yourself IF watchful waiting is best for you! In my case in 1995 even with a Gleason 2+1=3 I could not handle watchful waiting. I had a RP. I have been able to watch and wait with recurrent PC. My psa rose to recurrent 2 years after my RP (0.2) and it it now (0.6) 11 years later. I have been able to keep the recurrent rise in psa in the backround and not let it bother my peacefull life.  It is really up to You! Sincere best wishes to you as you decide what to do. Do not rush your decision. Al 

Posted 3/25/2009 1:39 PM (GMT 0)

Greetings, Jake.  You have to do what is right for you - do the research - make a decision and go with it.  You will find that there is probably somewhat of a bias towards surgery on this site.  I will be the first to admit that my bias is toward that option and here is why.  My stats are very similar to yours right down to age.  I was 55 at diagnosis and now am 56.  If you look back a few threads you will see a tool to use to find your real age and your life expectancy.  My real age is something like 47 and life expectancy 88.  While I don't put a lot of stock in those numbers, I do think I should have 30 good years left.  My decision was to get the cancer out of my body and get on with my life.  Yes, there are issues to deal with but there are issues with every treatment option.  I would have been a basket case with watchful waiting.  Some guys can probably do that and be fine - I couldn't. 

We trust that you will get good information and make the good decisions you need to make - whatever is right for you.  David

Posted 3/25/2009 3:17 PM (GMT 0)
Hi, i just want to thank everyone for their time in trying to help me make a decision, I am really glad i found this web site, and David you are right i have been a  basket case since Monday, I wish everyone well. 

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