Hi Denise,
My fiance was diagnosed with a Grade II Astrocytoma on 1-26-05, after having mild headaches for about 2 months. They finally ordered a CT scan and we were called back to the ER that evening, as they found a mass (8cm) on the right frontal lobe. He has not had any seizures and is having no neurological effects... no numbness, weakness, etc. The steriods have stopped the mild headaches he was having to begin with. We have since seen 3 neurosurgeons and have had a biopsy performed, confirming the diagnosis. He then referred us for consultation with a Radiation Oncologist and Oncologist, both of whom recommended resection if possible, as research shows that radiaiton and chemotherapy will not help a low grade tumor of this kind. We met with the Neurosurgeon again today to discuss our consultations and he said he is reluctant to attempt resection... 1)he does not feel the entire tumor can be removed 2)he feels there is a strong chance Bradly will suffer some neurological damage. Because he is not having problems now, he said it is an option to wait until we start seeing additional side effects (ie: the tumor has progressed!) Bradly is just 25 and otherwise very healthy. We would like to find someone who felt confident in resection and are in the process of being referred to MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston in hopes of finding just that. I have read alot about this Dr. Spetzler, your email in particular really stood out to me because you seem to be going through the same thing. I was wondering if you had in fact seen Dr. Spetzler and how you felt about the appt. I am very sorry to hear of your brothers diagnosis and will keep him in my thoughts and prayers.
Thank you for your time.
God Bless,
Jamie