Hi folks;
I am in a limbo state wondering what treatment to do next, and when?
I have been on and off Xeloda (2nd line treatment) for the past 18months for STG IV colon cancer. I stopped 3 weeks ago. My CEA is rising fairly rapidly again (approx 800) and tumours are growing slowly in lungs and liver. It looks as though Erbitux is the next line of treatment suggested for me. (probably with another chemo agent as well). My doc has suggested genetic testing on the tumour to check for the mutation showing if this could be ineffective (30-40% of population - gene = KRAS). I will have this result next week along with another blood test and CT scan. Then we can make a plan. (mets inoperable in liver)
I am going on a family holiday in 8 weeks time, hoping to maintain my current very good Quality of Life as it is at the moment. I am noticing some aches under the rib area..... nothing severe, but niggling. I am worried that if I stay off any chemo for the next 8 weeks, I will jeopardise future treatment successes; or should I persist with low level Xeloda even if I am showing resistance and intolerance due to hand and foot syndrome?? In the meantime I am staying on all my complimentary approaches, diet, supplements, meditation, positive attitude, etc.
My priority is to stay well for the next 10 weeks, enjoy an active family holiday, then I can handle anything!!
Looking forward to your comments and advice. Has anyone had this genetic test? What next if Erbitux is not appropriate? How fast can colon cancer progress if I wait 10weeks?
thanks for your comments if you have had a similar situation
from Benny