Prostate cancer might return after radiation therapy and surgical removal of the tumor. As hard as it may sound, it is a truth. If prostate cancer has not been eradicated or has returned (recurred), as shown by prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels in the blood or other tests, this is a clear indication further therapy is required. The follow-up treatment after you are diagnosed with recurring prostate cancer is dependent on factors like previous treatment, cancer location, and the current cancer condition. For recurring prostate cancer diagnosis, the imaging tests include MRI, bone scan, and PET tests.
Can Prostate Cancer Happen After Radiation Therapy?
Prostate cancer can return after radiation therapy. Prostate cancers are most often treated with external beam radiation therapy, although there is always a possibility of cancer coming back. It can take place either when there is some remnant of cancer after treatment or when the same type of cancer appears in another region.
The cancer stages, the type of radiation therapy administered previously, and one’s general health determine the chances of recurrence. Making sure to have regular visits with the doctor and prostate cancer diagnosis is very important as well for the purpose of watching for any reasons for recurrence, which is usually done through PSA testing. In case of recurrence, newer treatment modalities may be available.
Why does Prostate Cancer Comes Back After Radiation Therapy?
Prostate cancer may fail to respond to treatment for a number of reasons after the application of radiation therapy.
First is the possibility of residual cancer that may not have been visible at the time of treatment planning. Although radiation removes the tumor, it can’t guarantee the destruction of all the malignant cells, hence allowing the resumption of growth.
Some tumor cells may also be able to resist radioactivity, making them survivors.
The tumor biology is a factor; more aggressive tumors are more prone to recurrence. Hence, long-term monitoring is vital for cancer patients as this can offer them
reduced morbidity and chances of recurrence.
What are the Common Symptoms of Recurring Prostate Cancer?
A recurrence of prostate cancer might occasionally present with symptoms. Some men may go through a “biochemical recurrence,” in which their PSA levels increase without noticeable symptoms. Some common symptoms of recurring prostate cancer include:
- Increased PSA Levels: When you notice a steady growth of PSA levels in the blood, it might be indicative of a recurrence of prostate cancer. Your doctor might perform a PSA test more frequently to discover the rising PSA level.
- Urinary Symptoms: Difficulty while urinating and feeling the urge to urinate more frequently shows that prostate cancer might be coming back. An inflammation during urination is also common.
- Bone Pain: The patient might feel pain in the pelvic region (pelvic bone, hips, or lower back) during recurring prostate cancer.
- Fatigue: Persistent tiredness or lack of energy could indicate prostate cancer.
Symptoms like changes in bowel habits, erectile dysfunction, and swelling in the pelvic region are the signs of recurring prostate cancer. It is better to be watchful and contact the doctor when these symptoms surface.
