Infection from prostate biopsy

[Dave48003]

Many of my friends here on FT were aware I had a prostate biopsy on 3-9-2012. Normally, this is not eventful in and of itself, but my case had to be different.

The following morning, I woke up sweating, so I took my temperature and discovered a fever of 100.7. Checking my instructions from my urologist, I dutifully called the office as my temperature was over 100.5. Over an hour later, I got a phone call from one of my urologist's partners. Even though I had left detailed information with the telephone message service, he had no idea why I called (why do they even bother to ask when you call?). So, I explained the situation and he instructed me to go to the hospital E R and have some IV antibiotics. In the car for the 45 minute junket. Got an IC, they drew some blood, came back and told me it looked like I would be fine, and sent me on my way about 4 PM. My wife and I stopped for some Chinese, and I was surprisingly not very hungry, didn't even eat as much as my wife. That should have been a tip. We did the 45 minute trip north and got home around 6 PM. I was tired, so I told my wife I was going to nap on the couch. A bit after 7, I woke up and had to urinate. When I got off the couch, I started shaking. And shaking, and shaking. I shook violently, biting my cheek and my tongue. Every muscle in my body ached as though I had been beat. My temperature was swinging wildly from the low 100's to almost 107. We called the doctor again, never did get a return call this time. After about 1/2 hour, we headed south for the hospital.

Bottom line, I was admitted. The antibiotics I was given pre-procedure, earlier that day in the ER, and even the first day or so in the hospital were ineffective, the "bug" was resistant. Finally they tried an antibiotic that seemed to be effective. I was getting severe headaches, later discovered that was from my lymph system being overwhelmed. Finally Wednesday morning, the cultures were back and they knew what the "bug" was and also knew the antibiotice they were giving me was a good choice. I got a script for some oral meds and was sent home Wednesday afternoon. My wife had an appointment with our family doctor on Monday while I was in the hospital, and she passed along my situation to him. His comment was "He could have died!"

So, lesson for us all, those fevers are nothing to mess with. I plan to return to work tomorrow, I'm feeling pretty good at this point. Results of the biopsy on 3-30.

[Peckerwood]

Dave, I have a close friend who almost died last year from a prostate biopsy infection. You are both very fortunate to be alive after this experience. Many of these biopsies are unnecessary and only benefit the bottom line of those who prescribe and administer them.

[Spartan]

Dave, That is a horror story! I glad that you are getting past it!

[hardwood0690]

Thanks for posting your bad experiences with the prostate biopsy. I'm having one done two days from now and will now pay very close attention to how I feel afterward and not hesistate at all to call my doctor or go to the emergency room if not feeling right. Thanks.

[regain-is-the-aim]

Dave:

Wow! Glad you are out of the woods on this. Infection is becoming a bigger issue for all of us if we need care or procedures. When I had my biopsy I was given a prophylactic antibiotic at the time. I also had a good friend who had an even worse experience than you. My biopsy was necessary as is yours and they are a product of accurate identification of the extent, if any, of our problem. I have not had any issue of an unnecessary procedure or treatment from any of my Docs. Much of the extra process is defensive since if the biopsy was not done and the result was a PCa that got outside the prostate then the legal implications can be heavy. The world is complicated.

But, you are better and your admonition to be aware and careful is a good reminder that we are responsible for watching ourselves and being aggressive when things need attention.

Continue to heal my friend and I hope the biopsy shows you are clear.

My best,

Dick

[Dave48003]

Thanks for the good wishes, guys! I really appreciate my FT brothers. Since my 3-30 follow up appointment was made in consideration of my travel plans last week and this week, which have obviously been cancelled, I called and rescheduled my urologist appointment for 3-22, this Thursday. So, I should have some news by then.