Hello.
My husband is the one with numerous health problems. I wrote a couple of weeks back. He has Gleason 4 & 3, 7 of 12 positive, 90%, 90%, 60%, 60%, 60%, 30%, 10%. All on right side except one. Perineural invasion noted. PSA at Dx 10.2, % free 8. CT & Bone scan clear, except significant uptake in scrotum area (?) and what appears to be arthritis in the facet joint (?) He does have severe pain in his hip/pelvic area.
Urologist has given us a name of a Radiation Oncologist - we see him this Wednesday. Does anyone know if the doctor will request a 2nd reading of the biopsy slides as part of the work-up? We haven't had another reading of them. Due to many other health problems, and bad heart, he cannot undergo surgery. Uro says seeds and radiation is the way to go. I'm afraid that with hubby's other significant health problems, the radiation may cause too many problems. He cannot use his left hand/arm due to stroke a few years ago - I keep thinking of him having urinating problems/catheters, etc. There are lots of things he can't do, due to his only having to use one hand. In addition, there are other numerous colo-rectal problems due to congenital problems, and only 1 kidney.
I just am afraid that since the right side seems pretty full of cancer (all 6 cores w/ cancer, 2 with 90%, 2 with 60%, 2 with 30%), that it has escaped the capsule. If this is so, and the radiation leaves bad side effects that will be very hard for him to deal with, any side effects sustained would be in vain. I'm afraid the doctors will not take the "whole" picture and QOL into the equation of how to treat his prostate cancer - he is for sure a horse of a different color when it comes to trying to decide what to do.
If anyone can help me with what kinds of questions to ask, it would be so appreciated.
Thanks,
Cranky's wife