Hi. I'm new to this forum, my 74yo mother was dx approx. 2mo. Ago with both nsclc and the dissected inoperable AAA. We are struggling with what to do next. The aneurysm is inoperable due to siZe and dissection.
As for the lung cancer, our oncologist would like to do chemo and radiation.
We would like to know the risk of radiation on the aneurysm, they want to include radiation on lump nodes, which is close to aneurysm. It is their protocol to avoid this area but the radiologist wants to "try". We want to avoid unnecessary Appts. Due to costs. It seems like they should just tell us radiation is not an option.right?
With he lung cancer we ar struggling to determine quantity vs. quality. We believe the aneurysm is and should be our priority but the oncologist wants her to "try" chemo . She said my mom can stop at anytime. And that they can control all of the side effects so not to worry. We are very worried about the side effects as our cardiologist has been very strict about medical mgmt. reduction of stress, the side effects ar very scary becuSe of the physical stress from vomiting , exhaustion, etc. they have also not given any timeframes if no treatment .
Any suggestions. Not sure what to do next. Heart or cancer which is primary concern to provide best quality vs. quantity. Any help understanding the aneurysm effects from radiation and chemo
Thanks
Reply # - January 4, 2016, 06:27 PM
Do you know the stage and
Do you know the stage and type such as adeno, squamous, etc? Size and location of tumor? This would be helpful for the doctors here to know in order to try and answer some of your questions.
Take care, Judy
Reply # - January 5, 2016, 07:47 AM
Hi Jay,
Hi Jay,
I'm so sorry your mother has this problem. It sounds like each is a significant issue on its own and each with extenuating circumstances that make is an individual issue.
One thing that can be said about radiation is that location is an issue and needs to be taken into account. This video may be of help, though dissected aaa sounds like it can be very vulnerable.
http://cancergrace.org/lung/2015/08/21/gcvl_lu-d08_inoperable_early_sta…
We aren't able to give you suggestions on what the best course of action might be as far as treatment is concerned. However it does sound like it's complicated enough to have at least a 2nd opinion done with observations from both heart and vascular specialists and from lung cancer specialists.
I am in no way trying to advertise Cleveland Clinic. However the following statement that comes from their website is an important example of why a multidisciplinary group of specialists is needed to make the best plan for your mother. "Doctors vary in quality due to differences in training and experience; hospitals differ in the number of services available. The more complex your medical problem, the greater these differences in quality become and the more they matter. Clearly, the doctor and hospital that you choose for complex, specialized medical care will have a direct impact on how well you do." http://my.clevelandclinic.org/services/heart/disorders/aortic-aneurysm/…
The following link is an excellent reference on 2nd opinions, http://cancergrace.org/cancer-101/2011/11/13/an-insider%E2%80%99s-guide…
Please let us know if you have other questions or need clarification. I hope your mom does well.
Janine