Friday 19/10/2007 - 4:30pm.
Attended my first appointment with the Urologist/Surgeon in Monavale. After some intial discussion, I then underwent a 'digital rectal examination'. Not as painful as it sounds, but certainly a little embarrassing, as the process involved a gloved finger penetrating my anus! The result, confirmed a large firm (undoutedly cancerous) mass.
The Urologist explained that the normal PSA reading for someone my age would range between 0 and 3.5. Therefore my reading of 84.8 was cause for some concern and indicative of the cancer most likely NOT being contained to the Prostate.
The following provides a 'guide' in regards to PSA levels.
However, confirmation of this and the best way to move forward would have to await the results of a 'trans-rectal ultrasound/biopsy'.
This procedure was then schedule for the earliest possible date: Monday 22/10/2007 at 8:30am.
Attended my first appointment with the Urologist/Surgeon in Monavale. After some intial discussion, I then underwent a 'digital rectal examination'. Not as painful as it sounds, but certainly a little embarrassing, as the process involved a gloved finger penetrating my anus! The result, confirmed a large firm (undoutedly cancerous) mass.
The Urologist explained that the normal PSA reading for someone my age would range between 0 and 3.5. Therefore my reading of 84.8 was cause for some concern and indicative of the cancer most likely NOT being contained to the Prostate.
The following provides a 'guide' in regards to PSA levels.
A PSA reading below 4, indicates that the chance of prostate cancer being confined to the prostate gland is 65%Once the PSA is above 30, it is very likely the cancer has spread beyond the prostate and therefore cannot be cured surgically.
Between 4 and 10, the chance is 50%
Between 10 and 20, 35% and
Beyond 20, 20% and less.
However, confirmation of this and the best way to move forward would have to await the results of a 'trans-rectal ultrasound/biopsy'.
This procedure was then schedule for the earliest possible date: Monday 22/10/2007 at 8:30am.
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