Prostate cancer becomes life threatening when it has metastasized or spread into the body, such as the bones, brain, liver, or lungs. Prostate cancer is generally a slow growing disease; however once it has spread to other areas of the body it is considered aggressive and difficult to treat. Usually when any type of cancer spreads throughout the body, it is life-threatening.
When it comes to prostate cancer, the treatment recommendations are based on your PSA score, the grade of cancer, the amount of cancer present, and your medical state/history. If the cancer is present in a very small portion of the biopsy tissue, it is low grade, and poses a low risk of spreading you may be put on active surveillance. With active surveillance your PSA is checked more frequently (every 6 months) with the possibility of repeat prostate biopsies if PSA rises. If it is suspected that the cancer is growing, more aggressive management should be implemented. Treatment recommendations will be at the discretion of your doctor, and you should always make sure you follow up regularly for surveillance even if a small amount of cancer is present.
Georgetown, Round Rock, and Austin-area residents seeking prostate cancer treatment should contact Dr. Koushik Shaw and his staff at the Austin Urology Institute.
Learn more about when to get a prostate exam to see if you are at risk.
Please call to schedule an appointment for preventative/follow-up care: 512-694-8888
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