T3 Prostate Cancer

T3 prostate cancer is very serious and can be deadly if not treated quickly. Thus, it is extremely important that you understand the four stages and to effectively seek treatment as quickly as possible.

As with most types of cancer, the effectiveness of treatment is largely dependent on how early the cancer is discovered. If you are already in stage 3, also known as T3 prostate cancer, seeking treatment immediately is critical.

There are four stages, primarily, including:

In stage one, or T1, the tumor is usually very small and cannot be detected by digital rectal exam or ultrasound, and is usually only discovered through PSA tests or biopsies.

In stage two, or T2, the tumor can be detected during a digital rectal exam or ultrasound, but it is still confined to the prostate. This stage still offers a wide range of treatment options.

In stage three, or T3, the cancer spreads to adjacent tissue. This may include seminal vesicles, but does not yet include other organs. Treatment is still highly effective, but may be more difficult.

In stage four, or T4, the cancer spreads to organs near the prostate. This can include the bladder, rectum, lymph nodes, and even the bones. At this stage, treatment becomes much more difficult, and the prognosis is grim.

T3 prostate cancer prognosis is generally good. With stage three, the chances of the disease progressing in the next 10 years are about 50%. If the cancer spreads to seminal vesicles, the chance of a recurrence are further increased.

Also, one study showed that men who were treated for prostate cancer with radiation 20 years earlier had a 50% chance to die of cancer in the future.

Remember, early treatment is critical. Getting treatment early improves your prognosis significantly, so be sure to explore all treatment options as early as possible. Prostate cancer, even T3, is not a death sentence. Treatment can work well if it is begun in time.