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Fluctuating PSA in the ultra senstive range-My Experience

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Posted 11/21/2016 7:06 PM (GMT 0)
So back last December(2015), my PSA was trending upwards and hit .04. (.01 to .02 to .02 to .04)
I met with my surgeon, local urologist, and radiation oncologist. All 3 stated to wait until a test of .2 to trigger radiation.
Radiation oncologist said I could wait to .2, but he would be on board with giving radiation at .1.
My surgeon actually said to wait until .4, because he has seen it rend to this point and then go back down. All 3 docs told me doing radiation at .1 gives no better outcome than if you wait until .5

Since December 2015 I have had 3 more PSA tests. In March 2016 it was .02, back down. In June 2016, it was back up to .03. My most recent received today was back down to <.01.
My point is don't be afraid to wait it out a bit and maybe this idea of recurrence at .03 needs to be looked at, as I did have a <.01 went up to .04 and now I am back at <.01

I just figured I would share my experience for others that may be in the same situation.
Posted 11/21/2016 9:02 PM (GMT 0)
The clinical benefit of knowing these low values ​​is insignificant and it causes concerns ​​for the patient. Perhaps better for the piece of mind not be too informed i.e the lab could report as <.05
Posted 11/21/2016 9:24 PM (GMT 0)
GCC,

Congrats! Your numbers are wonderful. Now my advice to you would be go enjoy life and only check your PSA every six months from now on out. Save yourself the needless worry.

My husband would be dancing in aisles if we could be in your situation.
Posted 11/21/2016 9:38 PM (GMT 0)
Gemlin, I agree My old lab would only report <.05, however they closed and the lab for the last two years goes right down to <.01. The lab should only report down to <.1 to save everybody the worry.

My point was, I had members of this forum telling me it was time for radiation when I got the .04 test last year. Peanut307, I know my numbers are great and I thank God for them everyday. I just wanted to put my experience out there for someone who may have the same fears I did a year ago when the numbers were climbing a bit.
Posted 11/21/2016 10:07 PM (GMT 0)
You're right GCC! Your case is a good reminder to not jump to conclusions (or treatment) too quickly.
Posted 11/21/2016 10:24 PM (GMT 0)

GCC said...
The lab should only report down to <.1 to save everybody the worry.


Actually the "Current Clinical Guidelines for Prostate Cancer" in Sweden (where I live) actually have that recommendation "For PSA values ​​≤ 0.09 should the answer from the laboratory be <0.1" but I got my results from the doctor as <0.05 anyway.
Posted 11/22/2016 4:33 AM (GMT 0)
Your story is indeed a breath of fresh air as well as the responses you have received...Ahh if you live long enough you better had taken care of your teeth..er...I mean your dreams come true....know what I mean jelly bean...
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