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Posted 1/10/2012 9:52 PM (GMT 0)
Since I started treatment for PCa in August of 2009 every one of my PSA tests has been trending down, or in the case of the two past ones, at the bottom of the ultra test at 0.003. Now, about six months after my final Lupron injection in June 2010, my latest PSA test on January 5, 2012, shows a slight increase. I know that this is statistically unimportant since 0.004 is still in the undetectable category, but psychologically it is a bit unsettling since I finally see the upward tick that I always knew would come in time. My oncologist says not to worry and that I should be patient as the PSA is likely to trend up for the next three or four PSA tests. But I don’t know that a G9 can ever stop worrying!!

San Carlos
Posted 1/10/2012 10:04 PM (GMT 0)
The margin of error for the test and the test sample is way larger than that difference. You have a long way to go.
The fact that you reached and maintained an extremely low psa, regardless of the infinitesimal change on the way down, indicates you will have a long ride.
Posted 1/10/2012 10:17 PM (GMT 0)
san carlos,

part of me can understand your concern, but i couldn't imagine having a .004 reading, not with my post srt reading of 14.x and rising fast. sure its not just well within the tolerance or variance range of that ultra ultra testing? hopefully, regardless, it doesn't turn into a real source of worry 6 months or a year from now. you have been doing very well for your stats.

best wishes

david in sc
Posted 1/11/2012 5:29 AM (GMT 0)

Purgatory said...
san carlos,

part of me can understand your concern, but i couldn't imagine having a .004 reading, not with my post srt reading of 14.x and rising fast. sure its not just well within the tolerance or variance range of that ultra ultra testing? hopefully, regardless, it doesn't turn into a real source of worry 6 months or a year from now. you have been doing very well for your stats.

best wishes

david in sc

David,

As you might recall from previous discussions the velocity of my PCa was apparently quite rapid. I was tested in 2006 and PSA was 2.9, and DRE was normal. Did not get another test until 2009, at which point PSA was 11.9 and DRE indicated a hard nodule. Biopsy showed G9 with 6 of 6 samples positive, four G8 and two G9, ranging from 40% to 85%. So far treatment seems effective, but with my condition at diagnosis I am sure you understand my apprehension with PSA tests.

My best to you,

San Carlos
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