Finally I've gotten some good news

swl1956
swl1956 CSN Member Posts: 238 Member
in Prostate Cancer #1

After an IRE ablation procedure last year, then a few months of ADT so far, and 40 sessions of IMRT of the prostate and pelvic region for lymph nodes, my most recent blood work indicates a PSA level of .04 ng/ml. Down from over 9 ng /ml about six months ago. If I understand correctly, this is considered undetectable. I'm now supposed to stay on Orgovyx and Zytiga for another 1.5 years and being monitored every 3 months. I know I'm not out of the woods completely, but overall encouraged by this progress. Other than dealing with nocturia and some bowel urgency (both of which the RO suggests will subside going forward) I'm feeling quite well. As far as sexual functionality, I've accepted that will never be the same, but in the big scheme of things I don't find that any big deal. There are far worse things one might have to deal with. For one example; compared to a bout of urinary retention I experienced in my journey, it's a walk in the park! I was nervous prior to this last blood test. I'm sure it will be a bit worrisome prior to upcoming PSA tests as well, but at least for now things seem to be heading in a better direction. If my luck continues, I'm guessing the next milestone will be after ADT ceases. I'm keeping my fingers crossed.

Comments

  • fjubier
    fjubier CSN Member Posts: 27
    #2

    This is very promising after all you went through. I am very happy to see this post today. Thanks for sharing your journey on this forum!

  • swl1956
    swl1956 CSN Member Posts: 238 Member
    #3
    https://csn.cancer.org/discussion/comment/1722833#Comment_1722833

    Thanks Fred! I'm hoping your post cryotherapy tests have all been good for you?

  • Clevelandguy
    Clevelandguy CSN Member Posts: 1,322 Member
    #4

    Hi,

    Congrats on your low number and yes .04 is considered undetectable. Keep up with your PSA tests and enjoy life. Most people(me included) get edgy waiting for the latest PSA numbers. You could bounce around a little because it sounds like you might have some live prostate tissue generating a small amount of PSA.
    Dave 3+4

  • fjubier
    fjubier CSN Member Posts: 27
    #5
    https://csn.cancer.org/discussion/comment/1722836#Comment_1722836

    Thanks Steve! So far the focal Cryo did not affect my life in terms of side effects which was the goal…but I am due for my first annual MRI in July and my PSA have been 1.5, 1.3 and 2.0 past 9 months. My new baseline should be under 3.0 based on my PSA prior treatment (around 6). Of course I am little nervous doing the first MRI and this could trigger a biopsy if new image shows a new legion. I know that Focal treatment has some 30% failure rate on average like you went through with IRE…I will update you on my journey early July. Again I am glad to hear again that your results are very promising!

  • swl1956
    swl1956 CSN Member Posts: 238 Member
    #6
    https://csn.cancer.org/discussion/comment/1722840#Comment_1722840

    Thanks Dave! I'm "edgy" already about the next one. Lols!

    Being thankful for my recent results, I'm trying to smell the roses everyday. This Pca journey has awoken my consciousness regarding how fragile and temporary we all are. (Maybe these emotions are just the ADT? 😀) I do believe that most of us that are afflicted with adversity and survive become more empathetic towards others. Anyhow, I think I've evolved to a little less of a jerk than I used to be.

  • swl1956
    swl1956 CSN Member Posts: 238 Member
    #7
    https://csn.cancer.org/discussion/comment/1722852#Comment_1722852

    Yes, my Focal Therapy procedure didn't cause any permanent side effects either. (Other than dry ejaculation). I still believe Focal Therapy is a reasonable choice for those of us that qualify for it. In my case, the metastasis would very likely have occurred even if I had chosen RP or RT at the onset. I feel like I avoided the incontinence aspect of having RP. I do however now worry a bit about what long term effects I might have from all the X rays I've been exposed to. Once I complete the ADT, being I still have a prostate like you, it'll be a bit more difficult to gauge the PSA nadir. I hope your MRI is clear. Insist on a PSMA PET scan if there is any ambiguity. Keep up with the surveillance and please keep me updated on your journey. Thanks again, and yes, I'm ecstatic over the promising results. I even splurged and had two non alcohol beers today. Lols!

Discussion Boards