How many "cycles" of Sutent before re-scanning?

I was wonder what is the norm when it comes to how many cycles (of 4 weeks) are normally done before re-scanning to see if it's working or not? Or does it vary by doctor/patient?

My dad was diagnosed with RCC that has spread to his liver in the middle of March. He started Sutent on April 8th and completed his 4 weeks last Tuesday. He's had lots of swelling and fluid retention especially during week 4 of the cycle. The oncologist performed a CT scan last week to determine if it's "just" fluid or if the cancer is growing. There was a slight reduction in size of the tumors and no new spots on the scan.

 I am just wondering if others had a scan after one cycle and what was your results or if it's more normal to wait after 2 cycles, which is what the original plan was until he started swelling in his abdomen.

Thanks!

I have a CT scan done every 3 months, which I think is the norm at the cancer clinic I go to.  I am on Sutent, 50 mg., 4 weeks on, 2 weeks off.

My husband started Sutent Feb. 4th and was scanned after the 1st cycle and again after the 2nd cycle and now he is on his 3rd week of his 3rd cycle and he just has to go to see the doctor after this cycle but no scans until after the 4th cycle.

Good Luck!!