Prostate Cancer spread to bladder looking for advice

Tough diagnosis. Bladder cancer is like most organ cancers but when coupled with prostate cancer, becomes a major urological situation. Urological oncologist is one of the specialties that comes to mind. He probably should visit one of the major institutions like Cleveland Clinic, Mayo, etc that have well known Urology departments.

He can read about each cancer but the combination sounds tough to get through. You can search this site and will find a few men who have had both. Otherwise, I know little more than the next guy.

I'd agree with seeking a urological oncologist. Bladder cancer IS treatable today, compared to 20 years ago where it really wasn't. The surgical method involves fashioning a new bladder from a section of intestine--sounds crazy, but it works.

As in all similar situations, getting to a major research institution is incredibly valuable.

Hi Mike,
When my husband was first diagnosed, we weren't sure if it was bladder caner or prostate cancer. Biopsy results were ductal prostate cancer that spread to the bladder. We were not happy with Duke Hospital as a whole, so we went to MD Anderson for a second opinion. The cancer was extensive in the entire pelvic region. Danny's prostate and bladder were removed and he has an urinary diversion. Duke's prognosis was grim...one radiation oncologist there actually told him not to have the surgery, but it will be 10 years in June that he had his cancer surgery.

They're a rare bird, so to speak, but doctors like Dr. Eugene Kwon at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota, is a urologic oncologist.

He has been involved with my case since 2015.

Your friend has a case with complexities, like many of us here.

It's time to find a stellar doctor that can lead your friend forward. Folks think nothing of traveling a thousand miles to see a concert or sporting event ~ and sometimes travel is required to get the best care possible.

I consult with Dr. Kwon & update scans from time-to-time, but my primary care is handled by my local oncologist nearby.

I just celebrated my 10th Christmas and New Year's Day since diagnosis in 2013. I will need yet another candle for my next birthday cake in a few months, and that's a story you can share to encourage your friend.

Above all else ~ stand alongside him in that battle trench. We fellows need each other. Keep a box of matches in YOUR pocket and help him keep that lantern lit in that trench ~ the lantern of HOPE.

Keep in touch with him ~ and if you live close by, you might offer to go along to some upcoming medical appointments or just meet for coffee. There's no substitute for a "brother" in this battle.

Your friend is welcome to join us here ~ reading or posting, as he wishes.

Thank you for being an advocate for your friend ~

CYCLONE ~ # Iowa State University

Mike,
We go to MDA in Houston. We are both convinced that if we had stayed at Duke, Danny would not be with us today.

It has to be confirmed that it is PCa spread to the bladder versus bladder cancer. If PCa, then the treatment would be for PCa which is often different than the types of treatments for bladder cancer. Remember different cancers are quite specific and often require different treatments, thus the first step is to double confirm the specific cancer that has now been found in the bladder. I agree a urologic oncology specialist be consulted for a specific determination.

Where is he located? The institutions mentioned are worth considering and I would add places like the Iniana University Medical Center which has a long effective history with urological cancers.

Mike,
Yes, bladder cancer and prostate cancer are treated differently. When we found out that Danny's bladder had to removed, we were able to get a lot of information on bladder cancer forums as well as prostate forums. It's kinda like dealing with two different cancers because most prostate cancer patients don't have the bladder removed.

If he's in the Atlanta area, Emory is supposed to be a good hospital....though not sure how they are with prostate cancer. We know of a couple of people who have been successful there with their care for the cancer they have.

.

MJ, I am also in the Atlanta area. My urologist would be a good one to visit. Let me know.

Re IU Medical,Center, they are excellent with Urological Cancers. They became of prominence when Dr. Larry Eihnorn found the cure for some 95% of testicular cancers several years ago.