Non detectable to detectable PSA

swl1956

I believe I'm experiencing a slight rise in PSA? I finished 40 IMRT treatments 3 months ago and have been on ADT for almost six months. My PSA 3 months ago was considered undetectable at <.04. Just got my current PSA result now at .04 without the less than sign. Might this be a concern?

Wheel

I would not be to concerned yet. The < symbol previously could have had your PSA at .038 so it is hard to say. Even without your prostate your body produces a little PSA. I have always assumed they have the <.04 because people have various degrees of this non prostate PSA production. I would wait until your next test.

Clevelandguy

Hi,

Since you had IMRT you will have a PSA reading since you have live Prostate tissue still in your body. I would wait for several readings to determine if your cancer has retuned. Your numbers could jump around a little but if they steadily increase something could be going on.

Dave 3+4

Old Salt

What Clevelandguy wrote.

I had to go back, but it looks like you underwent a Nanoknife procedure. Therefore, you still have a significant amount of prostate tissue left. With respect to your PSA, I would not be concerned about such a small increase; it may not even be statistically significant. If you are still worried after reading our posts, just ask your Fox-Chase specialist for his opinion.

Of course, continue with regular PSA tests.

swl1956

Thanks guys! I'll be asking one of my oncologists at an appointment I have today. I agree with your assessments, but hard not to worry a bit with stuff even if the increase is small. I'll post what he says.

Paul_Cancer_Survivor

https://csn.cancer.org/discussion/329565/non-detectable-to-detectable-psa

Good Morning, swl1956.

I doubt it… but this is a question for your doctor.

Another question for your doctor may be…

"Should I have a PSMA/PET scan?"

Have a terrific day, and all the best.

On_A_Journey

@swl1956 , I wouldn't be concerned at all. After my primary treatment (radical prostatectomy) and secondary treatment (salvage radiation), the lowest my PSA got to was 0.04 in May 2018. It has taken 7+ years for my PSA to climb back up to 1.0, and I'm still not undergoing treatment yet, although I am waiting for the results of my latest pet scan now, which will determine what happens next. But it's not like I'm in God's waiting room!

My point is, I was you seven years ago. Keep up with your surveillance and just keep living your best life!

VascodaGama

swl1956

Though the 0.04 is mathematically higher than <0.04, it doesn't represent a failed treatment at this moment. The "old rule" in IMRT to start being concerned is still valid. It says that the PSA value to validate your worries is the third in "three constant increases after nadir" in tests taken at least 1.5 months apart.

0.04 is still a remission level.

Let's have fun and raise your red wine glass.

Best

swl1956

https://csn.cancer.org/discussion/comment/1723922#Comment_1723922

I do tend to worry too much, but have been finding it hard not to.

I'll be toasting with a beer mug full of N.A. beer. Not quite the same as the real deal! 😥

I'm curious Vasco, have you been enjoying alcohol throughout your extensive journey? My doctors advise against it.

VascodaGama

Hi again,

I have never abstained from having one or two glasses of red wine with meals. I also enjoy a draft beer occasionally. But I am not a fan of strong spirits with high alcohol content (whisky or similars).

However, I will not drink wine when the treatment requires it. For instance, the HBO obliges me not to drink any alcohol, sparkling beverages, coffee, tea, etc, within 3 hours before the sessions and 3 hours thereafter.

Your doctor may have a reason to have a negative view on the matter.