Just diagnosed with Prostate Cancer.
I was just diagnosed with Prostate Cancer, Intermediate, Gleason 7, 4+3 on three of the 12 biopsies. Cancer has not spread outside of prostate. Went in yesterday for a consultation with the Radiation Oncologist. We started discussing Radiation and he saw that I have PMR. He said I may not be a good candidate because after radiation, I may develop late radiation Toxicity (may be several months after to years following radiation). Has anyone had a diagnosis like this? I do not want surgery!!
Hi
. I can't speak to your specific situation, but I do have a few thoughts and questions. My wife, Kelly was diagnosed with juvenile RA at two years old, so I am quite familiar with the autoimmune inflammatory arthritic conditions. We also know multiple other people with autoimmune inflammatory arthritic conditions, including a few who have had cancer and were able to stay on their arthritis treatments. What kind of treatment/medication are you on for the PMR? Also, is there a specific reason your doctors think you would be particularly susceptible to radiation toxicity? Are you seeing a rheumatologist? I ask this last question because they may be able to provide more insight on the interplay of your PMR and it's treatments with any potential cancer treatment. My experience is that most oncologists don't actually have much training in autoimmune conditions, as rheumatology is not a required rotation in medical school. Wishing you the best. Richard (ProstateCancer.net Team) Good morning
. Thanks for your response. Yes, I do have a rheumatologist and have called her and left a message about this. My oncologist also is reaching out with his associates to consult with them regarding this. Fingers crossed!
Thank you Richard for your response. I am on Prednisone. I started at 30 mgs two years ago and now down to 3 mgs per day. My Rheumatologist has put me on Methotrexate 2.5 mg (6 tablets weekly) and Folic Acid 1 mg to try and help me get off of the Prednisone. My oncologist said that radiation with Prostate Cancer with PMR you would possibly get Late Radiation Toxicity (several months to years following radiation). which means my inflammatory muscle pain and stiffness could become worse. Our oncologist is reaching out to his colleages to see if they have had a similar situation to ours. I will keep you posted.
Will someone please spell out PMR at least once
- Polymyalgia rheumatica is an inflammatory disorder causing muscle pain and stiffness in the joints, muscles, bones and organs.
How would this condition affect having your prostate radiated?
Radiation can also cause a tightening or hardening of soft tissues, so the exposed areas might not feel as soft or as flexible as they once did, as in Muscles, organs, etc., which may cause more pain.
