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Tom778 · 09-10-2012, 08:50 AM

I just wanted to share that I crossed the next threshold in this "prostate drama" on Friday. To my gratified surprise my biopsy process was a "good" one. Prep was easy and the urologist was considerate of my comfort during the process. Two injections given internally for pain management; 12 samples taken. Tolerated well, though by the time number ten was being taken I was ready to stop feeling like Swiss cheese. Rested at home over the weekend, some aching which Tylenol managed. Some light blood in urine and stool, otherwise now waiting for results Friday morning.

Since this prostate issue arose in July I've "learned enough to be dangerous" about the condition, and feel as if Friday will not completely shut the door. If I understand prostate issues, I can expect anything from "atypical" to a low-to-higher grade cancer. Is there such a thing as a completely reliable, benign results that requires nothing further? I suspect my PSA will be followed at least with possible further biopsies in the future? Some perspective and input from anyone is more than welcome.

Also, the urologist measured my prostate and when I asked he said it was only slightly enlarged? How should I interpret this?

Any suggestions for how to go into the Friday biopsy results meeting; questions I should ask?

Tall Allen · 09-10-2012, 10:19 AM

I hope they gave you the additional antibiotics.

Prostate enlargement (BPH) happens to most of us as we age. You can take a 5-ARI (Proscar or Avodart) and an alpha-blocker like Rapaflo if you are having urinary symptoms. Some guys experience urinary symptoms with only slight enlargement, some don't have any with even a lot of enlargement. You should have filled out an IPSS (International Prostate Symptom Score) questionnaire.

I have a few suggestions:

Masturbate frequently. The semen will be a bright red color at first, then dark brown, then gradually get lighter in color. The more you masturbate, the quicker you will rid yourself of the blood. It may take several weeks.
Ask for a second opinion on your biopsy report from a specialty lab like Bostwick or Epstein.
If the result is positive, you will likely undergo "cancer panic."Resist it, and resist any inclination to make any decision on the spot, especially if the urologist says "You're in luck -- I happen to have an opening next week." If he says, "This is what I'd recommend to my father," consider that he may have unresolved Oedipal issues.
Keep copies of everything, including path report, prostate size and PSA history.
Go in to the meeting with someone else. You will probably miss half of everything that was said.It's good to have someone there to pick up what you may have missed.
Go in with your questions written down and write down the answers.

- Allen

Baptista · 09-11-2012, 01:47 AM

Hopefully the biopsy is negative to cancer and the rise of PSA is due to BHP. The gland’s volume could mean just that.
In any case you should be prepared for the news and try knowing the terminology to better understand your doctor. The American Society of Clinical Oncology offers advice on procedures and a list of questions which you may adapt to your own list.
Just type “Questions to Ask the Doctor” in a search engine.

This is a worrisome period in your prostate issue. I recall being nervous when visited the doctor (in 2000) to receive the diagnosis. My first reaction to the positive results was to deny it. I though it being a misinterpretation by the pathologist or a mistake, exchange of biopsy samples from another patient.
It will be good to be accompanied by a family member.

Hope for the best.

Baptista

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