My wife (NSCLC stage IV) had a pleurodesis operation 6 weeks ago.
An X ray taken yesterday showed that the operation succeeded and except for small pockets, the lung is free of pleural liquid.
But my wife suffers very badly from pains in the area where the operation was performed (including the healed wounds of the tubes inserted during the operation) and the lower part of her chest. The surgeon who performed the operation says that he does not see any reason for the pains.
We would appreciate any experience / suggestions on this matter.

I had my yearly CT scan and my Doctor said the radiologist noticed my Thymus gland was "more apparent" in this scan than last years scan. He wants to repeat the CT scan in 6 months instead of a year. I guess my question is how common is this and what would cause the Thymus gland to be enlarged for lack of a better term. I have been ned for 6 years. This is my first post, so I'm not sure I posted in the correct category. Thanks

Hi All,

Dear Dr. West & team,

My mom (aged 74) was diagnosed with Stage 4, Adeno 19 months ago. The tumors were localized on the left lung along with malignant pleural effusion. She went through VATS & Pleurodesis. She was EGFR & ALK negative. She received 6 rounds of chemo (Carbo & Alimta), followed by Alimta maintenance for around 11 months now. Her performance status is excellent.

My mom has been on a nivolumab trial for adeno for 7 months.
Having two issues that appear unrelated and looking for advice.
Very low red blood count, hemoglobin and iron (20 mcg).
Also, lots joint pain that affects mobility. Would Enbrel be contraindicated?

Are any of the docs seeing this in practice and could they comment? Or is there literature addressing this?

Any suggestions are appreciated.

Hello,
I came across a study that claimed that corticosteroids can interfere with the apoptosis effect of cancer drugs depending on the cancers genetics.

53 y/o male, non-smoker. On 9/3/15, had CT Urogram with IV Contrast looking for kidney stone issues (had Cystoscopy in 2008) which was unremarkable, however, the radiology report found:

Hello,

Does anyone know of a phone support line where I can talk to someone? My mom passed in December she had ALK positive lung cancer. I have had chest and back pains ever since her diagosis and am freaking out thinking I have the same. I just need someone to talk to, I'm having a really tought time right now.

T

Hello all. I just watched the podcast by Dr West on systemic Tarceva as an alternative to brain radiation in multiple brain metastatsis from 2012. I was wondering if anyone had done this or if there was any new information on the topic?

Hello Dr West

I have to ask a really stupid question.

Does each metastasis have the potential to behave like a primary tumor and send out microscopic cells into the periphery just like a primary tumor does?

And If this is not the case, than what is the mechanism that is preventing this from happening?

Thanks so much

Kempten