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First post-op PSA

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Posted 5/21/2009 3:35 AM (GMT 0)
At six weeks post-op, I get my first set of results...0.1. It is not the ultra sensitive test, so the only better result is <0.1. How maddening! But considering that my PSA only six weeks before was 17.8, my urologist considers this a good sign. I hope and pray that he is right. Next test is in another three months. So some worry persists, and I cannot say that I am in the zero club yet.
The rest of the recovery is going well. I am back at work, using two to three lightly soiled pads daily. No erectile ability yet. I hope I can post better news next time.
Posted 5/21/2009 3:59 AM (GMT 0)
I was told by my doc that labs use 0.1 and <0.1 interchangably. I hope you are in the zero club in three months.
Posted 5/21/2009 4:06 AM (GMT 0)
Thanks Geebra. The doc made it clear to me that the test was right at 0.1, not below it. Either way, there is nothing to do about it for three months...so I am going to enjoy my summer!
If IMRT is in my future, then I will deal with it then.
Posted 5/21/2009 4:41 AM (GMT 0)
Well, I think you did all you could to help yourself. If your PSA is rising and the biopsy comes back negative what can you do? Nobody will operate on you with a negative biopsy. At least I dont think they will, I don't believe insurance will pay for it. My first biopsy was "suspicous" for cancer but not diagnostic for cancer, had to wait 5 months for second biopsy which found the cancer on the second shot. You do the best you can and then respond to the results. Good luck to you...........
Posted 5/21/2009 5:27 AM (GMT 0)
Thanks for keeping us posted.  We'll continue to look for that less than .1 next time.  David
Posted 5/21/2009 5:41 AM (GMT 0)
Mine didn't shoot down right away either. But I had already made my mind up ~ I was adding adjuvant therapies. If you can, take a look at my post for stage 3 patients today. The information may be helpful.

Don't worry too much. You have lot's of ammo. And it was an early test...Stay Positive.

Tony
Posted 5/21/2009 11:28 AM (GMT 0)
Is your next PSA in three months or at the 3 month mark. My doctor starting me at 1 month and then lead up to the six week mark. I would think you would go back in another 6 weeks to have a PSA at the 3 month mark.
Posted 5/21/2009 1:09 PM (GMT 0)
Do not fret - your PSA will be zero the next test!

My husband had his first PSA about 5 weeks post-op and it came back at 0.1 (prior to surgery, PSA was 6.4). The urologist called and said that his PSA test next time will come back zero - about 4 weeks after that - and it did and has remained there ever since. It can take a couple of months for the PSA to leave your blood stream so don't fret!
Posted 5/21/2009 7:11 PM (GMT 0)
My surgeon doesn't even do 6 week tests unless there is a special reason to worry. He says that 3 months is a much better data point. I'll bet that you have already joined the zero club but they just haven't sent the membership card.
Posted 5/21/2009 11:54 PM (GMT 0)
As others have stated. My Dr. does not do a PSA for 3 months also. He said the earlier test can give results that make the patients have unnecessary anxiety. I suspect at your 3 month visit you will be able to join the Zero club with us. By the way I am the treasurer and will accept you dues at that time. Cash only please.


Good luck my friend. Don't let this send you into a spin. Lets see what your 3 month test is.
Posted 5/22/2009 11:30 AM (GMT 0)
Thanks, folks. You all have made me feel much better. And that is why we are here after all. So, where do I send the cash!!
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