testing after treatment for mmmt

I can't seem to get an answer from my oncologist regarding the kind of testing that will be performed after  radiation and chemo (carboplatin/taxol) ? I want to know how they will assess the treatment and the erradication of my cancer of the ovary (mixed multiple mullerian tumor) Since my tumors were unnoticed even though they were quite large, I have to wonder whether they will do pet scans, CT scans or MRI's and which is more reliable, if any. My oncologist seems to think I'm silly to want to be tested. He said Why would you want to know? We know that if chemo does not work the 1st time, then it only has a 20% chance of working a 2nd time. Am I nuts? or is the doctor nuts?

Hi

MMT or carcinosarcoma is nothing to mess around with.  It is considered the rarest and most aggressive form of ovarian and uterine cancer there.  I would highly suggest you join the yahoo MMMT list for more information on how patients are being treated and monitored for this cancer.  You can find the list by going to the yahoo list home page and then searching on it by topic.  the members are women with either uterine, ovarian or fallopian carcinosarcoma and their family members - folks from all over the world.  My own mom is losing her battle with this dreadful disease.

 Christiane in Oregon

Hi.  I do not no much about your cancer.  I have epithelial ovarian cancer.

Get a doctor you trust.  I am in GREAT hands with my oncologist.  He is very proactive in my health, but then again so am I.  It is my body.  You have to be your own advocate.  Doctors do need reminded.

About the different scans;  A vaginal ultrasound will show tumors/masses on your overies and within that area.  It is not that expensive, and it is usually one of the first test ordered to check for ovarian cancer.

CAT Scans are usually performed on the chest abdomen and pelvis.  Ovarian cancer is an abdominal cancer, so this test is used more frequently.  Unfortunately, it will only show cancer that is greater than 1cm in size.  It is more expensive than an ultrasound, but both are usually done before you get operated on.

PET Scan is the best scan for our cancer, but it is very expensive; about $15,000.  It will show cancer less than 1cm in size.  They use this test if your doctor suspects that your cancer has returned.

I hoped I helped with your questions.  My best to you and your family. 

How do you access the yahoo home page. I have had no luck

You type in www.yahoogroups.com to access the page where you can search for various groups.  Then type in MMMT in the search space and I think it should pop up right away.

 I hope that this helps,

 

Christiane