Choosing a Dr. - Cancer: Prostate Message Board

mvenglass · 06-09-2003, 10:09 AM

I've posted here previously about my dad being diagnosed with pc. My Dad is 52 years old, his last psa was 204 and his gleason score is 8. He is having the the scans to check his bones and lymph nodes this week and we will have the final diagnosis on June 23rd. He's currently going to a urologist who is also a surgeon. As soon as we get the final diagnosis we want to get a second opinion for treatment. My dad has a few contacts one being the head of oncology at a major university and the other being the head of urology at another major university.

So my question is, is it better to see an expert urologist or oncologist? At this point it's just to get a second opinion on treatment. Thanks for your input.

Melissa

Dave A · 06-09-2003, 07:47 PM

Hi Melissa,
Your dad is wise to seek out other opinions. In general, each medical discipline has their bias as to what the preferred treatment option may be. He may wish to see both a Urologist and Oncologist. I would be cautious about seeking the opinion of an academic who may not be actively engaged in treating patients. I trust the guys in the trenches who are working directly with this disease every day. There may also be a local cancer support group in your area that can assist in locating a reputable Dr. who can provide a sound alternate opinion. .. Just my two cents ..

Dave

mckeener · 06-10-2003, 09:20 PM

Hi Melissa
I am the youg prostate cancer patient. It is wise to seek various opinions about which is the best treatment to take. All the studies i have looked at so far is the uroligist prefer to remove the prostate while the oncologist prefer the treatment with radiation and other sources like the seeds. It seems each discipline is evenly split. I go thrusday to get the results of my test and then will make my decision on which way to go. Good luck and let mec know what your dad finds out.
Leo

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