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Diagnosed in 2009; PSA of 4.1; Had adjuvant hormone therapy and High-Dose Brachytherapy followed by low-dose EBRT. 7 years of <0.2 PSA came to an end last year and after a couple of rises, I decided to see my original oncologist. A PET scan a couple of weeks ago showed recurrence, but contained with the prostate. My latest PSA was 3.7. I'm awaiting a biopsy (although I'm not sure what purpose that will serve).
So, it's back, just when I thought I was home free. I'm looking at options. As a 64 yr-old in general good health, I'm looking for something that will delay the advent of ADT - eradication would be lovely but I think I'm playing for time here. But I have a wonderful wife, 12 years my junior, and quality of life also matters.
So, any advice from people who've experienced recurrence would be much appreciated. From what I've read, statistically the best route in terms of survival is surgery. But I also know that the QoL indicators aren't great. The thought of incontinence and complete impotence fills me with dread.
So, have any new options appeared during the past 7 years? Is there anything to be said for simply watching and waiting? Or should I take action npw?
David:
There are commonalities between what you are experiencing and what I have dealt with for the past several years. I have fully documented my "tumultuous journey" from the outset in an ongoing, on-line journal; see http://protondon.blogspot.com/
If you decide to have a look, I suggest you begin with the entry titled "To My Family, Friends and Cyberspace Buddies"
I will be available here to answer any questions that occur to you.
Best wishes Don O.
