Prostate Cancer active? surveillance

I was told by telephone over 3 years ago that I have prostate cancer (Gleason score 3+3).

MDT recommended active surveillance and I agreed. Since then I have been getting PSA checked every 3/4 months ( last reading was 10.6) and had two MRI scans. I have had telephone appointments with a Consultant, but the last one was over a year ago as the last two have been cancelled at short notice. I have not seen a single person face to face apart from MRI technicians. Is this typical? I live in Scotland

Jim

  • Hi Jim and thank you for posting,

    So long as you are having regular PSA tests and you have had scans along with telephone appointments, you may not need to see anyone face to face. Having said this protocols may vary throughout Scotland.  You can read a typical example of active surveillance on the Prostate Scotland website.

    If you have had MRI scans this may mean you do not need to have a rectal examination. There is also some information on our website which may also be useful.

    If you are concerned that you have not been seen face-to-face or had a recent examination, it might be helpful to talk things through with your nurse specialist (CNS) and see if your next appointment with your consultant may be face-to-face.

    I hope this helps a little, please feel free to get back to us if you need any more information or support.  You may find it helpful to talk things through with one of the nurses on our helpline.  The number to call is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open from 9am till 5pm Monday to Friday.

    Take care, all the best

    Jemma

  • Hi Jemma,

    Thanks for your response. I suppose it would be better if the Consultant just said I don’t need to see you but cancelling tele-cons for no reason is annoying. I’ve had my moan and thanks again for taking the trouble to respond  

    Jim