PSA over 6, biopsy scheduled in two weeks

I had a PSA that showed an increase from just under 5 to just over 6 in two years. I also had the digital exam. Urologist's office called and he wants to do a biopsy. Reading some of the information on the web indicates that there are disagreements about the kind of treatment needed. Of course, until the biopsy, I guess I'm still not diagnosed with cancer. I'm 62, with no family history of cancer. I joined today because I need some hand holding. Thanks for all the posts out there. It will take some time to read them. I live north of Chicago.

Dan

Dan

Hopefully the biopsy will be the only thing you have to go through right now and it all comes back clear. I would just make sure they take 12 to 20 core samples to be sure they are doing a good cross section to eliminate any doubt. Just remember if it does come back positive you have this board to come to for help and support. There are many treatment options to review and this is no means a death sentence you can get through this. But for now we will keep the positive thoughts coming that you have a negitive biopsy result.

norskie

I'm keeping my fingers crossed for you. I'm new here and I would love for you not to have to come back. If it's possitive the folks here are aces. The give advice and support and make you feel welcome. Good luck to you

Alex

Dan:
Hope you do not need to join this group, even though they are a nice bunch. We are close in age so let me fill you in on some thoughts. First, a higher PSA maybe from other things besides cancer, infection, enlarges prostate, etc. so wait until your biopsy . Second, you need to be your own advocate. Get a biopsy, and ct if necessary. Prostate cancer is curable as you will learn by going through the internet. If the biopsy is positive you have many options but most of us on this board seem to have selected surgery. Age is a big factor and you are young. My PSA 16 months ago was 2.5, than last year 3.4 when I insisted upon a biopsy. No other problems, healthy. Just last week in prep for surgery my PSA is 2.45. Go figure. Take an agressive stand and stay here for good companionship. Barrister

Hi ~ Dan,



Thank you so much for joining us!

You’ve truly come to the right place… This is a scary time and the mind will truly play tricks on you.

It’s really important to not let this time between now and the biopsy results…. tear you down.

As Wittler would say…”STAY STRONG”…. Don’t give the negative thoughts a chance to enter.

Wait for your biopsy results and then deal with whatever you have to deal with.

Attitude is everything…. Mental & Physical.

Hey ~ this is a perfect time to start getting in shape and will help the stress level too!!!! If you’re already in shape ~ great!!!



The minute I saw Chicago… of course I wanted to shout “GO BEARS”…. Well guess what!!!

GO BEARS in 2007-08 J Why NOT!!! Just saw where they signed Lovey to a 4 year contract. Much deserved for sure.



Well new friend…. Take each day as it comes and enjoy it. We are here today and never promised tomorrow… so 2 weeks from now will be here when it gets here. Enjoy today… Keep holding on close to all of us... OKAY!!! yeah



You are in our forum family prayers… sending extra strength to you. Pull our strength!!! We’ve got lots to share..

In Friendship ~ Lee & Buddy

Hi Dan

I hope that you only have good news after your biopsy. even so, it never hurts to learn a little about PC and the various treatment options even if you do not have PC. if you do get diagnosed with PC, it can be overwhelming at first, especially when you have to go into a "crash course" mode to learn all you can about PC so that you can decide on a treatment option. I do not recommend any treatment option other than what you consider right for yourself after substantial PC research and doing some networking with PC patients who have already been there (this website is an excellent example of this). i encourage you to read my thread entitled Proton Radiation Therapy - My Journey with Prostate Cancer. i discuss my thoughts on the various treatment options and why i decided on the treatment that i thought was right for me at my age. i believe that i have also included some other helpful information to those weighing their treatment options. All the best of good luck to you!

Dave

I hope you have a negative biopsy. If your PSA continues to rise your doc will want to do another biopsy in six months. You may want to look into some non-invasive type of imaging to determine if you have cancer to avoid further biopsies. The biopsies and DREs are rather primitive diagnostic tools IMO and lead to treatment decisions that may not be optimal. Good luck.

I had the biopsy yesterday in the doctor's office. He did 12 I think. Also he said the ultrasound indicated the prostate is pressing into the bladder. He says it's enlarged. Results on Thursday.

Hi everyone. The doctors office called and told me that the biopsy results were good. His nurse went on to say that since my prostate is 6x larger than normal, I will need to address that problem with either medication or Tuna or Tumpt. I meet with the doctor tomorrow.

Thanks to everyone on this site. It is comforting to have support.

Dan

Dan:

Glad to hear your biopsy news is good - looking forward to your post after Dr visit tomorrow. That enlarged prostate may be your problem. My only suggestion would be that, the next time you get a PSA, you also get a "free" PSA reading. It would be another tool you could use to determine your situation.

Dutch

Dan ~ It feels so good when we can send this special message. Just remember! You are still part of our forum family!!! and we want to hear from you as to how you continue to do. Thanks for reaching out to all of us. The unknown is so scary.... and as you stated... You have the knowledge now ~ for the future. Continue to take One~Day~At~A~Time and we thank you for allowing us to walk with you. We will keep you close in thoughts and prayers as you move on... to the next stepping-stone on your path to HealingWell...In Friendship ~ Lee & Buddy

So Glad Things Are Better

A message of hope by Emily Matthews



Sometimes the road

seems dark and long,

but suddenly, there’s light

To warm our hearts and let us know

that things will be all right,

And in those golden, warming rays,

we find the strength to cope

And emerge from times of trouble

with a brand-new sense of hope



So glad that things are better

and this stressful time

is through ~

Here’s hoping

this is just the start

of better days for you.

Dan,

I am pleased that your biopsy was negative and that you know the cause of the elevated PSA is your enlarged prostate. Medication will most likely solve that problem for you. I am also pleased that you are going to stay around on the site. Others may jump in like you did seeking any information possible and you can relate your story to them.

Tamu

Dan - that is the best news possible for you! Well, certainly you've learned from being here and that will keep you on track with your yearly exams, right?

Continued good health,
Susan