Frequency of lung CT Scans on Tarceva? - 1246415

healingwithgodsgrace
Posts:3

Hi everyone it's been a really long time since I posted..sorry been away.
I have a question which I have been hard pressed trying to find the correct protocol for how often to get a lung CT Scan. And also when is a follow up PET scan required if at all for Tarceva for r and l sided lung nodules with a dominant one on right.

What is the correct protocol as I don't know if my doctor is doing them frequently enough.
Thanks!
Shelley

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Reply # - August 6, 2012, 05:00 PM

catdander
Posts:

Hello Shelley, I hope you are doing well. The frequency of CT scans is usually every 3 months when you're on tarceva treatment. PETs aren't considered beneficial in this situation with how treatment decisions are made.

This FAQ explains it;

http://cancergrace.org/cancer-101/2010/09/16/cancer-101-faq-assessment-…

I hope this is helpful,
Janine
forum moderator

Reply # - August 6, 2012, 05:41 PM

healingwithgodsgrace
Posts: 3

Hi Janine thanks for responding so quickly..
I don't know why I haven't had a follow up scan so frequently.. I started doing every 6months, but my last scan was in novemeber and doctor was only able to get my next one in October this year..
Why is he not following protocol? Is there a reason why a doctor does not order the scans every 3 months?
Is there an official document that dictates the frequency so I can email it to my doctor?
Do u suggest I switch doctors if he is not following protocol.
Thanks I just want to feel I am getting the right attention and care!
Thanks again for emailing me so fast!
Hugs..

PS thanks I read the link, and the RECIST article, I just can't seem to find anywhere the proper interval so I can send it to my doctor. I just don't want to insult my doctor, but it would've helpful if I could ask him gently if we could do my scans per a protocol established in the industry..
He works with a teaching hospital, so I would have thought he knew!

Reply # - August 6, 2012, 07:52 PM

Dr West
Posts: 4735

I don't see any specific recommendation in the documents, perhaps in part because it's such a clear consensus that patients with advanced NSCLC are scanned every 6-12 weeks initially, and that can be extended out to 3-6 months, very rarely a year in the patients doing well for a very long time. But every clinical trial, which really frames best practices, starts with follow up scans every 6-12 weeks before gradually increasing that interval for some patients doing very well for more than about 6 months.

-Dr. West

Reply # - August 6, 2012, 09:34 PM

healingwithgodsgrace
Posts: 3

Thanks so much Dr West.. That really helps. You are amazing for answering so many emails from so many patients all over the nation, when my own doctor doesn't even answer my emails.
He really should know this. Thanks again for your dedication.
I will still have the courage and at least ask my doctor in person what his thinking is and if he could scan me regularly.. respectfully of course. I hope he didn't just forget about me, God Forbid.

Have a wonderful and Blessed evening.
I really enjoy the great wealth of information and resources you have, and the panel of experts you bring here.
I am very grateful!
All the Best, Shelley

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