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Strange test readings during HT vacation -- when does T recover?

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Posted 4/15/2014 3:16 PM (GMT -5)
Ok, I was due for my HT shot on 2/27, but due to a great response, I am off Lupron/Casodex. I was on it for one year. I am now on Avodart.

I just got the results back from an extensive round of blood tests ordered by Dr. Lam.

The big number, the PSA, remains undetectable (<0.02).

However, the following tests are abnormal (they were at the end of HT also):

RBC Count -- 4.18 (lower limit should be 4.32)

Homeglobin -- 13.4 (lower limit should be 13.5)

Hematocrit -- 37.9 (38.8 lower limit)

This time they also did a T level and it was 10. I know that's great while on HT. I figure the above abnormalities are probably related to this T level.

I am still experiencing the SE I had while on HT and I assume that is also due to the low T.

So, when will the T rise? I also say this with some trepidation, as I suspect the PSA might also rise (true?).

I have very good energy getting through the workday, but my gym workouts are harder.

Comments?

Mel

Posted 4/15/2014 3:37 PM (GMT -5)
The data for T recovery after ADT are all over the map but I seem to recall that the more-optimistic results after a year of ADT showed a median time to recover (to the normal range) of 12 to 15 weeks. You are just shy of 7 weeks now. Give it a couple more months.
Posted 4/15/2014 3:57 PM (GMT -5)
Mel,
Those results are normal in most blood ranges I have seen reported.

See for example:

www.mayomedicallaboratories.com/test-updates/attachment.php?id=27704

That said it is common to be borderline anemic when undergoing ADT. In your case it is very close to normal considering your current castrate level of testosterone.

As to testosterone recovery, it can be very variable. The recovery period can be as much as a year depending on age and also on the pre-treatment level. Continue your gym workouts as they usually help in elevating T levels. The good news is your undetectable PSA. Good going and many more!

RalphV
Posted 4/15/2014 5:42 PM (GMT -5)
Mel,

My last Lupron shot was Oct, 2012. It was a 4 month shot. So that takes me to Feb, 2013. Testosterone started to rise in April, 2013 and by June, 2013 it was over 500. I'm on Avodart as well and my PSA (and other markers) have been good since.

I don't think those other blood tests are that bad, especially with little T. Take the PSA results and run with that...can't get any better than that regardless if T is on the rise or not...

Was your last shot a 1 month shot?

Jerry
Posted 4/15/2014 6:41 PM (GMT -5)
Jerry:

I am a  year behind you. My shots were 4-month shots.

Oh, I am thrilled with the PSA results.

Mel

Posted 4/15/2014 6:44 PM (GMT -5)
Ralf:

Interesting. I suspect the units are the same, so I don't know why the range differs.

I called and spoke with Dr. Lam's NP and she also confirmed that this is expected, given my low T, and it should start recovering by next round of tests (in 2 months).

I'm not concerned.

Mel

Posted 4/15/2014 6:50 PM (GMT -5)

compiler said...
Jerry:  I am a year behind you.  My shots were 4-month shots.

See what you have to look forward to...and you will.

Enjoy the vacation...both of them.

Posted 4/15/2014 8:05 PM (GMT -5)
Hard to believe its been a full years since you were on HT, time flies, to me, it seems only like a few months ago that you started. At least you are getting the PSA results you were hoping for. Sure the T part will improve over time, and as others have stated, it just varies so much guy to guy. Hopefully your PSA will resist the urge to start rising while you are on "vacation".

D.
Posted 4/15/2014 9:20 PM (GMT -5)
Mel,

I agree with everyone above. You are looking really good at this point.
Congratulations!!

Paul
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