CancerCompass message board discussion started by Cindy b on 4/17/2005 http://www.cancercompass.com/message-board/message/all,1905,0.htm Tue, 02 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT Tue, 02 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://backend.userland.com/rss RSS.NET: http://www.rssdotnet.com/ Hi, My father-in-law was diagnosed with Pharyngeal Cancer in October 04. He received radiation and chemo which ended at the first of the year. The mass was large and they were not able to do surgery for many reasons. He did very well, other than being tired and not able to eat. He has a feeding tube in his stomach and is still using that for 99% of his intake. When the cancer was diagnosed, the doctors mentioned two spots on his lungs. Said if it was cancer, the chemo would take care of it. When his treatment was completed, he waited a few weeks for the scans. They came back promising, although the spots on the lungs were still there. The drs. said they were comfortable watching them since they had not changed. Early April, he went for another round of scans. This time they told him they believe they got his throat cancer, but he had 10 new lesions on his lungs. They told him he has an agressive form of non small cell stage 4 lung cancer. The oncologist recommended Tarceva. When he saw the throat dr., he said, it's not really lung cancer, but throat cancer metastisized to the lungs. Is that really any different? He initially thought Tarceva wasn't the way to go but has changed his mind. He is to start taking it as soon as the drug store gets it in. The doctors do not have very good bedside manner...we don't really have very little info. My mother-in-law had to go back to the room to find out what stage the cancer was in. They were very vague about life expectancy. We know they can't tell us for sure, but we have no idea whether to hope for years, or expect months. He looks terrible, sleeps most of the time, and is very weak. Has anyone had a similar experience?? Cindy b Sun, 17 Apr 2005 00:00:00 GMT Hi Cindy B., My wife was diagnosed with breast cancer a year ago. I can share with you what knowledge we have acquired from Dr's and the internet. There is a difference between lung cancer and a cancer that has metasisized from somewhere else. Most cancers require different treatments. I'm not sure if they can tell if the new lesions are from the original cancer or something new. You might have to trust their judgement or get a second opinion if you feel uncomfortable with their diagnosis. I would recommend discussing your concerns and questions with your doctor first, and if you don't understand something make them explain it you, that's what they are there for. Stay positive and keep the faith. You are not alone. Best of luck. Scott43 Thu, 05 May 2005 00:00:00 GMT