I have base of tongue cancer. It is a T2 but has involved a lymph node (one) of three.
It was originally diagnosed as a branchial cleft cyst, after a CAT scan and a Fine Needle draw which my ENT said both confirmed that it was not cancerous. The cyst was shaped such that it looked to be non- cancerous and the biopsy of the FNA said no cancerous cells were found.
I went into the hospital thinking that I was having a cyst removed. It turned out the mass was cancerous and had one lymh node of three with cancer. Later I had a PET and they did a biopsy based on that and said it is base of tongue cancer.
I begin radiation in a week. But I am being told that I do not need chemo. This seems very strange to me. Am very greatful for this site...since I am getting a much better sense of how to prepare myself for the future.
My question...I am being told I do NOT need chemo. Can anyone comment please. I had always thought that once a node was involved chemo was automatic. Any information would be greatly appeciated.
Thanks