First I was diagnosed with duodenal cancer. I had a "resection" done on August 9, 2006. The duodenal cancer had metasticized to my liver where I had many secondary tumors.
The original tumor was bypassed in order for the bile to flow through. Spent 33 days in hospital with a tube carrying out the bilirubin and i was left with an inoperable tumor and no chance for long term survival.
My present oncologist says the tumor is as likely to be ampulla of vater as duodenum. For four months he treated me with chemo - elotoxin and Gemzar. after two months off I went on to Zeloda, (oral chemo). During this time my tumor marker went down from 4,000 to 174 and my liver enzymes went way down also. My last cat scan in June he said everything had shrunken significantly. Then we had another blood test not even a month later. Liver is way up and tumor marker is way up. . Says things like "we've had a good run" he's worried and doesn't know what to do next. But I feel good except for a slightly bulging belly. I'm doing my life, celebrated my 70th yesterday, and I look and act like maybe 48. I would like some feedback as well as referrals of doctors who are experienced in this type of cancer. I plan to be around a long time. Can it happen? Grateful for suggestions. Reeni