Dr. Gott: Normal prostate doesn’t need biopsy

Dear Dr. Gott: I am a 71-year-old male.

Last fall, my PSA reading was 4.2, and the urologist suggested a biopsy of the prostate. The results were negative.

My latest PSA reading was 2.2, and the urologist wants to do another biopsy.

Is this necessary when the previous results did not show abnormal conditions, and now the PSA is within normal limits?

Dear Reader: Were I in your shoes, I would refuse another biopsy unless the PSA test exceeds 4 or your urologist feels an abnormality when he examines you. Continue your annual checkups.

To give you related information, I am sending you a copy of my health report “The Prostate Gland.” Other readers who would like a copy should send a long, self-addressed, stamped envelope and $2 to Newsletter, P.O. Box 167, Wickliffe, OH 44092. Be sure to mention the title.

Dear Dr. Gott: I am on 10 milligrams of Lipitor per day. When I have had blood work done, it has shown something abnormal about my liver.

My doctor then sends me in for another blood test, and that comes back OK.

Shouldn’t that be an indicator to stop the Lipitor?

If I stop taking the medicine now, will it hurt me?

Dear Reader: Among other side effects, Lipitor (and other statin drugs) can cause serious liver inflammation.

Forget the blood test. Go off the Lipitor, and wait a month or two before having the testing done again.

You also may wish to examine treatment options for your elevated cholesterol. This would include niacin, flaxseed, and omega 3 fish oil. No more statins.