CT Scan results discussed with Oncologist

After a little breakfast at Bob Evans, Dad saw
Dr. Danso (Oncologist) to review the results of the CT Scan taken last week. The images were compared to the PET CT, CT Chest and lung biopsy taken in April.

The tumor on his left lung measures approximately 5.8 cm by 7 cm by 7.6 cm. Since April, these overall dimensions of the tumor appear questionably increased, although measurements may not be exact since the lung has developed a large left pleural effusion (entrapped fluid) - this makes direct comparison somewhat difficult.

The radiation treatment causes scar tissue to form in the lung and around the tumor cutting off the blood supply to the cancer - if the cancer does not have blood to feed it, it will liquefy and die. It is difficult at this point to determine if the treatment was effective since the tumor did not decrease in size. There is currently a "cavity" measuring approximately the same size as it was in April but does it contain cancer???? An x-ray will be taken in 3 months to see if there is a change.

Dad is coughing a lot so he was given a prescription for a cough suppressant. If the fluid on his lungs increase, they will have to removed it by needle. Dad's feet are numb from the chemo which explains the carpet burn on his forehead and nose - he took a tumble in the night on Saturday.

Dad weighed 147 lbs today which is a 28 pound loss since April. He doesn't have much of an appetite - Dr. does not want to have to give him medication to stimulate his appetite. Mom and Dad received his third supply of BOOST and he will begin using that on a daily basis.

PRAISES:

• One lymph node measures 9-10 mm and is stable. The other lymph nodes previously discussed on the CT scan of 4/11/08 do not appear to be present at this time
• No other masses or nodules are identified
• The right lung is clear

Dad has an appointment tomorrow at 2:30 with Dr. Mehta (Radiologist). Possibly there will be further discussion and explanation of the findings. An update will be posted after that appointment. Thank you for your continued prayer.