In the context of prostate cancer, a "relapse" is certainly cause for concern; however, it does not the same risk to a person's life as what is typically associated with most other forms of cancer. In fact, some prostate cancer relapses are so slowgrowing that no further intervention is required. (Although, it is important to keep in mind that some prostate cancer relapses do represent lifethreatening situations that may require careful attention.)

In this video, PCRI's Alex and Medical Oncologist Mark Scholz, MD, survey "biochemical relapse" or a rising PSA after surgery or radiation for prostate cancer, the factors that help physicians determine the risk of a relapse, and the best courses of action depending on the level of risk. Moreover, Dr. Scholz emphasizes the recent advent of commercialized PSMA PET scans and their potential to change/specify treatments and treatment intensity in relapse settings to achieve higher cure rates and/or lower side effect rates.

0:07 How is PSA used to monitor prostate cancer patients after surgery?

1:30 Regarding PSA and monitoring after surgery, what sort of timelines do you expect to see? That is, when do you expect the PSA to reach its lowest point (aka PSA nadir)?

2:57 What does a rising PSA mean 60 days or more out from surgery?

5:58 Which factors determine the urgency with which men should have salvage radiation if their PSA begins rising after surgery?

8:30 Does insurance typically cover PSMA PET scans for men in the relapse setting?

8:52 What is the procedure for patients who have a rising PSA, but their cancer does not show up on a PSMA PET scan? Around 10% of prostate cancers do not produce the PSMA molecule that the PET scan uses to detect cancers with unprecedented specificity and sensitivity.

10:01 What should a person's first steps be if they are diagnosed with a rising PSA after surgery?

10:43 What is the meaning of "biochemical recurrence?"



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The Prostate Cancer Research Institute (PCRI) is a 501(c)(3) notforprofit organization that is dedicated to helping you research your treatment options. We understand that you have many questions, and we can help you find the answers that are specific to your case. All of our resources are designed by a multidisciplinary team of advocates and expert physicians, for patients. We believe that by educating yourself about the disease, you will have more productive interactions with your medical professionals and receive betterindividualized care. Feel free to explore our website at pcri.org or contact our free helpline with any questions that you have at pcri.org/helpline. Our Federal Tax ID # is 954617875 and qualifies for maximum charitable gift deductions by individual donors.

The information on the Prostate Cancer Research Institute's YouTube channel is provided with the understanding that the Institute is not engaged in rendering medical advice or recommendation. The information provided in these videos should not replace consultations with qualified health care professionals to meet your individual medical needs.

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