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DiscussionNeed some support for RARP Decision
Prostate Cancer | Last Active: Aug 1 9:42pm | Replies (19)Comment receiving replies
Replies to "I just joined here. I just found out I have a lesion on my prostate. My..."
Hi Jeff,
Just to share with you my experience. First, you can have a lesion that is not cancerous. I had (2) PI-RADS 4 that after guided biopsy showed not cancer in the lesions. Second, most if not all urologist want to cut out your prostate, they are surgeons and surgery is their bread and butter. I would find it unsettling that my urologist would want surgery without even a biopsy or known Gleason score. Thirdly, there are reasons for your PSA to rise and fall, depending on what you did prior to the test. You can google and compare if you fall into those categories. Do research and don't make a decision until you have all the facts. At this point, all you have is a high PSA and MRI that shows a lesion. You need the Gleason score. Your doctors will not be a good source for decision making, you will need to do that on your own. Good luck.
With prostate cancer, much depends…..
Remember that PSA is not cancer-specific. The PSA number itself is similar to a “check engine” light on a car; it indicates that something may be wrong, and further checks should be made “under the hood.” Might be as simple as a UTI; might be BPH; might be more serious, such as prostate cancer. Just need to have further checks. No need to panic, or rush to a quick treatment decision, or get overly concerned.
However, if by “I just found out I have a lesion on my prostate” means that you just had an MRI that identified a PIRADS 5 lesion, then it’s highly likely that you have clinically significant prostate cancer. There’s no way to be 100% certain until you have the biopsy results.
As for picking the right treatment - (I never use the word “cure” when it comes to prostate cancer because recurrence is so common) - it depends on the diagnosis, your priorities, and the quality of life you expect. Let the numbers guide your treatment decisions; try to keep emotions and dark thoughts in check.
Once you get your initial diagnosis, take your time, gather as much testing information as possible, and research like you’re studying for a final exam.
If you take control of the situation, you’ll find the treatment that’s right for you.