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PSA Rise Post Surgery

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Posted 5/10/2016 5:52 AM (GMT -7)
PSA @ 3 & 06 Months <.05
PSA @ 9 & 12 Months .03

Latest PSA test at 15 months post surgery is in and it's up to .05, not what I wanted to see.

I have another PSA scheduled in 3 months. I'm assuming if I see a rise above .05 on the next PSA it's time to talk to the RO or should I be doing something more proactive now?

Jon
Posted 5/10/2016 6:06 AM (GMT -7)
Sorry to hear it's headed that way. Good you have another test scheduled, but I think starting the conversation with a RO now would be good.

Andrew
Posted 5/10/2016 7:45 AM (GMT -7)
All I can say at this point is 'hang in there' others will weigh in I'm sure. Sometimes PSA bounces around a bit before settling in...
Are you getting the draws done at the same lab?
It doesn't hurt to start gathering information. I'm a planner so if it were me I would like to have an action plan ready to execute regardless. And putting one together now will give you plenty of time to vet it.
Take care.
Posted 5/10/2016 8:29 AM (GMT -7)
Thanks for the kind words and support.

It's been the same lab all along but they changed the testing method. The last 3 tests were done using the same "Abbott Architect" method. (.03, .03 then .05)


Just got a response back from my URO's nurse and I will quote her -

"A PSA of .05 is still considered normal, Dr. so-n-so (URO) becomes concerned if your PSA is .2 or greater. You should keep your appointment in August and repeat your PSA a few days prior to the appointment as scheduled."

Everything I have read here says don't wait until you get to .2 if your PSA is rising. Hmmm, now what to do.
Posted 5/10/2016 8:59 AM (GMT -7)
Listen to YOUR medicos my advice…but if you wish..you will have no problem getting any treatment you want at any time you want…like studies there are a multitude of medicos around…

"everything Ive read here…" See the dangers as well as the benefits of forums….they walk hand and hand.
Posted 5/10/2016 9:03 AM (GMT -7)
Well I would put the plan together and then go for the re-test. The ultra-sensitive test is a two edged sword right? On one hand it helps to determine if a trajectory is in fact occurring and allows you to be proactive. And on the other hand it could just be "noise." If you were getting the regular PSA it would show <0.1 and you would be happy...
Posted 5/10/2016 9:46 AM (GMT -7)
Hi Graytech. Between .05 and .2 is quite a bit of rise, and enough to know that it's not a lab correlation or calibration issue.

You will know to be concerned long before .2, but if it were me, I wouldn't panic at .05
Posted 5/10/2016 10:29 AM (GMT -7)
from what I have read , it happens often
its the next reading that will count

good luck.
Posted 5/10/2016 11:01 AM (GMT -7)
So you haven't had any real change in your PSA, just a change in the lab's test kit. Your pathology was good and your PSA is very stable and low. I don't think it's a good idea to wait for 0.2, but I don't think you have to react unless your PSA starts steadily rising, or goes up at a rate over 0.5 per year.

- Allen
Posted 5/10/2016 12:16 PM (GMT -7)
Thanks again to all. I thought I was mentally prepared for a rise in PSA but when I saw the number my heart sank. I do think I may have been better served, mentally anyway, with the standard <.1 test.

It does make sense to wait for the next 3 month test, that the next one is what will really provide more useful info. I also have the follow-up appointment at that time with the URO so I will be able to discuss it face-to-face with him.


Again, many thanks - Jon
Posted 5/10/2016 7:00 PM (GMT -7)
Wheww……. yeah
Posted 5/11/2016 5:19 PM (GMT -7)
Graytech

If you were getting the uPSA with one more zero, you would be anxious much earlier.
Seeing what is happening with me now:
www.healingwell.com/community/default.aspx?f=35&m=3621923&g=3622912#m3622912
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