The Definition of uPSA rise

So -- I decided to wait until Jan to have SRT ... and instead got a 6 month Lupron shot the other day.

The day before the Lupron shot, I got another uPSA, which came back today at another hundredth of a point higher! ..

My RO said it would be "ok" to wait until Jan 2018 for SRT in order to help with the costs of insurance... and the Lupron shot "should help"

At this point though, with this constant increase is the Lupron shot enough for now? ... or should I forgo the cost and start SRT immediately?

Also, is my uPSA climb considered FAST? ... or Slow? ... or ? ... seems like every test is higher... and in just a few weeks, so to me it seems very fast?

Finally, given that I had my surgery not quite 1 year ago... and the PSA is already back, combined with my history, what am I fighting here? ... is this aggressive cancer in anyone's terminology books?

(I know I got some of this from my doctors, but I feel like he didn't really have the time to dig "deep" into my situation, the remedy was already prescribed the moment he saw my climbing psa, so he didn't really comment on how aggressive he thought it was)

I guess what I'm asking here, is should I go borrow some $$ and start the SRT immediately, or is it OK to wait 3 months because of the Lupron shot?

Zzarth

It will take many days or weeks for the Lupron to drop your Testosterone to castrate levels (under 50). After that the PCa is affected. Once it is affected it generally becomes more radio sensitive, meaning the radiation will be more effective. I understand that most oncologists like to see 60-90 days on the ADT before starting the radiation. So you are right on schedule. You have done everything you should, now stop worrying.

Take the next 90 days to get in shape for the radiation. While being radiated there is toxicity to urinary and bowel functions. These generally clear within a few weeks once the radiation stops. My docs took me off of caffeine, carbonated, and acidic beverages as they can be tough on the urinary system. Also reduced alcohol intake. They also had me watch my diet and cut down on fats. I was not fiber restricted and did not have any problems, but others have restricted their fiber intake. Increase hydration and exercise. Make sure you are sleeping well and a similar amount each night. This will all help you get ready for radiation and with the coming ADT side effects. You are about three weeks from your first hot flash.....brace yourself!!

Most of all enjoy the coming holidays and the fact that you are not currently in any type pf treatment. Look for the positives. Have fun. And understand that you are doing the exact right things.