hi my partners last appointment the oncologist said he had locally advanced prostate cancer and gleason score 7 . he didn't say a stage. I assumed locally advanced was stage 3 but I've been reading and I've read that it could also be stage 4 . his bone scan was clear so I thought this was hopeful but he didn't look very hopefull the doctor . we now waiting for a pet scan cause they said there wanted to check lymph nodes to be cautious? and then treatment plan from there . I've generally been OK but now feeling anxious and worried again .
Locally advanced is T3a, T3b, T4, or N1, providing it's M0. These are all Stage 3 cancer.
Stage 4 (Advanced) is M1, i.e. any metastases, excluding the case where metastases are only in nearby lymph nodes (which is N1 and still Stage 3).
Waiting is the worst part of early stage PCa.
I understand that this is a challenging and worrying time for you and your partner. Locally advanced prostate cancer can indeed fall under both stage 3 and stage 4, depending on the extent of its spread. The PET scan will provide more detailed information about the cancer's reach, helping the medical team formulate an appropriate treatment plan. It's normal to feel anxious, and it's important to communicate your concerns with the healthcare team who can provide more clarity about the specific situation and potential treatment options. Seeking support from friends, family, or a counselor can also be helpful during this process.
oh ok thank you so the t number isn't a stage ? I went down a rabbit hole last night couldn't sleep so silly started reading stuff still awake at 2am and I was up for 5 for work 😴 today's a new day 😁 I find I'm very up and down guess its normal
Hi 1982 ccc
I see from your post it says at 1 o’clock in the morning. I feel for you, the anxiety affects the partner as much the person diagnosed, and obviously you’re having difficulty sleeping. Try and keep as busy as you can, be kind to yourself and don’t be afraid to seek support from the specialist nurses on here, or if there is a support group near you such as Maggies, go along and have a chat with them. I believe talking is so important to get through this ‘journey’.
Good luck,
Derek
I understand your anxiety. Waiting for test results can be stressful. It's essential to discuss your concerns with the medical team for clarity and support.
Edited by member 04 Nov 2023 at 13:34 | Reason: rectifying mistake
When feeling anxious, it can help to practice deep breathing exercises to calm the mind and body. Engaging in physical activity, such as going for a walk or practicing yoga, can also alleviate anxiety.
very good advice from Derek, talk to the specialist nurses.
can't believe so much as happened it feels like a lifetime ago not 3 months but we are both in a better place now . thank you everyone again for your help and advice .
thank you . he had the pet scan before xmas and theirs no sign in lympth nodes or bones . he's having brachytherapy and radiotherapy starting February time. radiotherapy in pelvic nodes as well cause said he's high risk cause of high psa ?
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