Life expectancy at stage 3
Stage 3 refers to a condition in which the capsule of the prostate gland has already been penetrated by the tumor or the seminal vesicle has already been attacked by tumor cells. This stage is therefore already a locally advanced form of prostate cancer. Compared to the previous stages, life expectancy is more limited due to the greater spread. But again, in addition to the stage, the Gleason score, the PSA level and the resection margins must also be assessed. The values are discussed with the treating physician and the potential course of the disease is assessed on the basis of these values.
Life expectancy at stage 4
In stage 4, prostate cancer is already very advanced. It has either already affected other organs such as the bladder, rectum or pelvic wall, or the lymph nodes, or distant metastases already exist. A combination of these conditions is also possible. The prognosis for advanced or metastatic prostate cancer is worse compared to the other stages. However, even at this stage, life expectancy is estimated taking into account the Gleason score, PSA level and resection margins of the prostate cancer, as well as general health and age.
What is the life expectancy if I have metastases?
Prostate cancer is a type of cancer that generally progresses rather slowly. It is therefore difficult to say exactly how long life expectancy is in the presence of metastases. A prostate carcinoma that has already led to metastases (daughter ulcers) has a worse prognosis than a tumor limited to the prostate alone.
The further away the metastases are from the prostate, the more advanced the cancer is. Typical for prostate cancer are metastases of the lymph nodes in the pelvis, the spine and other bones. The metastases can often cause back pain. It also plays a role in life expectancy whether or not the metastases can be surgically removed or whether or not they have grown together with nerve fibers or important blood vessels.In addition, aspects such as concomitant diseases, the general condition and age of the person affected are also important for the prognosis. If, in addition to the metastases, there are also many concomitant diseases, a weakened general condition and a very high age, this has a rather negative effect on the prognosis.
