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Experienced Pathologist to test prostate cancer biopsy

Posted by ann31 @ann31, Jul 25 5:58pm

Can anyone recommend a GU pathologist for second opinion of my prostate biopsy? I am looking for a pathologist trained for prostate cancer in biopsies. This is for my 56 yr old son. He lives in a small town with limited healthcare. He can have slides sent from the original lab. Originally read by inexperienced pathologist for prostate.

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copyman | @copyman | Jul 25 9:07pm

There is a pathologist Dr. Jonathan Epstein is probably the best in the country that does 2nd reads of prostate biopsy slides. Although think he charges $500. I believe his price includes ordering the slides from place that did biopsy, returning them, and detailed pathology report with Gleason score, etc.

Also if there is a university teaching hospital, MD Anderson, John Hopkins as suggested by the other poster you could contact them about reading the slides.
Advise your son to go to a cancer center of excellence even if it means traveling a distance. Seeking out top prostate docs for treatment can be a big factor on saving his life!

Because of his younger age and depending on his Gleason score most docs are going to recommend removing his prostate. Tell him not to jump right into this decision, there are many options besides removing the prostate. Get 2nd and third opinions away from that small town he is in!
Best wishes for your son and you.

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wheel1 | @wheel1 | Jul 25 9:17pm
In reply to @copyman "There is a pathologist Dr. Jonathan Epstein is probably the best in the country that does..." + (show)
Profile picture for copyman @copyman

There is a pathologist Dr. Jonathan Epstein is probably the best in the country that does 2nd reads of prostate biopsy slides. Although think he charges $500. I believe his price includes ordering the slides from place that did biopsy, returning them, and detailed pathology report with Gleason score, etc.

Also if there is a university teaching hospital, MD Anderson, John Hopkins as suggested by the other poster you could contact them about reading the slides.
Advise your son to go to a cancer center of excellence even if it means traveling a distance. Seeking out top prostate docs for treatment can be a big factor on saving his life!

Because of his younger age and depending on his Gleason score most docs are going to recommend removing his prostate. Tell him not to jump right into this decision, there are many options besides removing the prostate. Get 2nd and third opinions away from that small town he is in!
Best wishes for your son and you.

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@copyman
Medicare actually paid for my review at John Hopkins. I have heard previously of Dr. Epstein. I am sure Medicare has a set price maximum they will pay. Medicare is actually very good at second opinions and even paid for my Decipher.

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climateguy | @climateguy | Jul 26 12:40pm

Epstein is extremely highly regarded. He was a featured speaker at P.C.R.I. mid year conference this year. P.C.R.I.'s Dr. Moyad interviewed him for a video:


At 1 hour, 1 minute or so into the video they discuss how important a second opinion on a biopsy is. The whole video gives a good idea as to how expert Epstein is.

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