High PSA and biopsy
Hi,
My dad just went to the urologist yesterday. His PSA was 27.7. In the past year I didn't know but, his nephrologist had been testing him and his PSA has fluctuated from 22 to over 28. The urologist now wants to do a biopsy on my dad. I'm pretty worried. I really had no clue about prostate cancer/issues. I knew his PSA was elevated but didn't know it was that high. I'm kind of worried that its serious or something could have spread due to the high levels from the research I've done. We don't have a clue though of course and have to wait almost a month to find out. I was all for the biopsy but concerned about the potential infection side effects. He is a diabetic dialysis patient and already has alot of issues. I saw they do a prostate mri and I'm going to ask his dr about it, but since his levels are so high not sure if they'll do it? Just wondering if anyone has any thoughts or advice. All of this is sudden and stressful. Thanks!!
A PSA of 27+ is high that said a PSA test is not a test for cancer. It simply measures the antigen in the blood stream produced by then prostate. A large prostate will produce more antigen than a smaller one for example. A biopsy will let you know if cancer is present and you will also learn what stage the cancer is via a Gleason Score. A score or 6 is low - Scores of 7- 10 are more of a concern. Mine was a 9 in 2013 and I am still here 😀
There are 2 ways to do a biopsy one is done through the rectum the other is done in the region between the rectum and testicles and eliminates the chance for infection. Today men are given antibiotics prior to the biopsy and then after to eliminate the possibility of an infections.
He may also be given a scan to see if the cancer has spread beyond the prostate. Given your dads medical description the MD's may advise radiation vs surgery - both are effective and can stop or slow the cancer. We all react differently and each of us unique in how we should be treated.
Prostate cancer is slow growing and if caught early is a treatable disease. Try to become as informed as possible - ask lots of questions and seek out other medical professionals if you are uncomfortable. I hope this info helps - Feel free to reach out Dennis(ProstateCancer.net TEAM)Dennis- thank you so much for all this information!! It's been very helpful. Glad to hear you are doing well still. All of this is very encouraging. Thanks for your help!
Hi
. Sorry to hear about your father's issues. It is clearly good that he has you advocating on his behalf. As noted, until your father receives a diagnosis, it is best not to make any assumptions based solely on the PSA. If it does turn out that to be cancer, know that treatments have come a long way and that there are quite a few options available. For example: there is Cyberknife, Proton therapy, Cryotherapy, and prostatectomy, just to name a few. This article from our editorial team gives an overview of treatment options, with links to more specifics: https://prostatecancer.net/treatment. The doctors should be able to provide additional information and, as Dennis said, develop a plan that fits your father's health needs. In addition, I want to share this article from our editorial team on being a caregiver for the newly diagnosed: https://prostatecancer.net/caregiver/newly-diagnosed. Hopefully this help guide you a little bit in path to come. Please know that this community is here for both of you. Best, Richard (ProstateCancer.net Team)
