In an neck xray for an accident, the Dr. informed me that I have thickened bones and referred to me a few other Drs. to check out the possibility of prostate cancer. What is the relation and is this a huge concern? I am uninsured and cant afford the costly tests involved. Do you have any suggestions for me? Thank you
Hi, Thanks for writing in. Prostate cancer is a condition that spreads to bones. Cancers can affect bones in two ways, either there is breakdown or there is excessive calcium deposition. In breakdown the process is called lysis and in deposition of calcium it is called sclerosis. In prostate cancer, there can be sclerosis seen in the bones of the spine usually in the lower back region. However, bones of upper spine can also have sclerosis. I would suggest you to first get a low-cost insurance and then take tests for prostate cancer like ultrasound scan, serum PSA and free PSA values. If there is probability of cancer then further detailed tests are required. Please talk to your doctor to arrange for the tests keeping in mind your ability to pay upfront for the various tests. The tests must be completed within a month, and you can also try and find out healthcare support groups or from your employer if your tests and any treatment can be funded by external resources. Please do not worry.