Hi there,
This time last year my wife insisted that I had a PSA test. It came back with a reading of 5.6. A second one 6 months later it was 5.2. Earlier this year a third test prompted my Doctor to refer me to a Urology Consultant. The Consultant asked me to get another PSA test and to have an untrasound. The test came back as 4.8, which seemed hopeful as the numbers were falling. The Ultrasound however identified a larger than normal prostate and an area of concern at the apex.
Luckily being a member of Benenden I was able to go to a private specialist for the diagnosis. At the first meeting with the Consultant a DRE identified a hard area in the apex of the prostate. An MRI was called for. The MRI confirmed the anomalous area, but also that there was no indication of any spread outside the structure.
Next up was a Trans Perineal Biopsy. Not pleasant but necessary. I was told that the results may take a fortnight, perhaps 3 weeks due to the backlog in the histology department. A long fortnight followed, with my wife doing circuits and bumps and lots of Googling.
Last Thursday I was called by the Consultant and given the results. Whilst a number of cores were clear, there were 2 (3+3) and 6 (3+4). The evidences were found on both sides of the prostate and definitely in the area of concern. I have localised prostate cancer. I was stunned by this and forgot to ask about the T rating(?).
Given the Gleason scores of 7 he recommended that treatment take place. I was given three options: Robotic Prostatectomy (TG there is a machine in Belfast), Targetted Beam Radiotherapy and Brachytherapy. A choice now needs to be made.
Overall I was not expecting this. I have had no symptoms and it was only on the prompting of my wife that I had PSA tests. Even my Doctor is shocked with the outcome. My general feeling at the moment is one of relief - I know what I am dealing with and that there are interventions that can be made. I am also curious as to why I am so calm about this. Here's to the start of an adventure.