My brother in law has stage 4 prostate cancer. He developed an agressice tumor in his back while on chemo and his PSA is 1200+. His dr. has stopped chemo and has said there is nothing left to do. My brother in law has lost significant weight and treatment is now to manage the pain. He is not in hospice yet. How long do you think he has to live.
Hi, Thanks for writing in. Sorry to hear about stage 4 prostate cancer in your brother. Since his PSA is 1200 and doctors have found an aggressive tumor in the back therefore all attempts must be made to extend his survival and keep him comfortable by reducing pain as much possible. Please discuss with the oncologist if he can take radiation therapy to control the disease progression and whether he is getting adequate pain relief. Additional pain relief medicines like opioids can be added when he develops bouts of sudden pain. In stage 4 disease patients can survive for 2 years with good treatment and supportive care. Therefore, if he is able to maintain his general condition then he will be able to survive longer. Please give attention to his nutrition and give more proteins. He should also Chat Doctor.