Cancer of base of tongue questions??????????

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LonnieC
LonnieC Member Posts: 2
in Head and Neck Cancer #1
My significant other was diagnosed 1 1/2 yrs ago with squamous cell cancer at the base of the tongue and underwent radiation and chemo. At his 1 yr follow-up scan it had returned but seems localized to the tongue. (previously it was present in one lymph node on the same side of his neck). He will undergo surgery the end of this month to have the tumor removed. He will not do research because he knows himself well enough to know he will dwell on the worst stories and news. I on the other hand need info. I would be grateful to hear from anyone who has undergone this surgery, including full removal of the tongue. What can we possibly expect, especially regarding things like eating, swallowing, and talking. Also recovery time and follow-up treatment. He is 66, never had been more than a social drinker and stopped smoking in his early 30's. I want to be able to give as much support as possible and also help to set realistic expectations. I am an alternate on his health care proxy but was unable to ask my questions at his Dr. appointment because I don't want to put fears in his head that aren't already there. He does ask specific questions he has so there is nothing lurking in his mind that he didn't ask, but he didn't get to my questions.

Thanks in advance for your support and help.

Lonnie C

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  • Hondo
    Hondo Member Posts: 6,636 Member
    #2
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    Hi Lonnie

    I am sorry to hear the news, I am NPC, but I am sure you get a lot of help as there are many here who have had tongue cancer.

    PS: Welcome to CSN

    Wishing you well
    Hondo
  • LonnieC
    LonnieC Member Posts: 2
    #3
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    Hondo said:

    Hi Lonnie

    I am sorry to hear the news, I am NPC, but I am sure you get a lot of help as there are many here who have had tongue cancer.

    PS: Welcome to CSN

    Wishing you well
    Hondo

    Hi Hondo,
    What is NPC?
    Hi Hondo,

    What is NPC? Thanks for the welcome.

    Lonnie
  • Hondo
    Hondo Member Posts: 6,636 Member
    #4
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    LonnieC said:

    Hi Hondo,
    What is NPC?
    Hi Hondo,

    What is NPC? Thanks for the welcome.

    Lonnie

    Hi Lonnie
    Nasopharyngeal cancer (also called nasopharyngeal carcinoma or NPC) is a disease of the nasopharynx, which is the air passageway at the upper part of the pharynx (throat) just behind the nose. Mine was just where the ear tubes drain into the throat.

    Hope this helps and hope you stay and become part of the faimly here.
    Hondo
  • KTeacher
    KTeacher Member Posts: 1,103
    #5
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    Search Head and Neck
    There is a box at the top right side of the screen that says Search Head and Neck, put your question in and tons of information comes up, more than you probably need.

    Welcome to the group, we cannot do this alone, thank you for being a caregiver.

    There is a Superthread that comes up weekly that has wonderful information. Sweet has worked diligently to get information for all of us.

    My sister goes with me to all of my appointments. She was a legal secretary. Boy does she think of more questions than I come up with. The doctors have all taken their time and answered all of our questions. Keep a binder and get all of the reports and copies of lab work.

    God Bless you in this journey.
  • jim and i
    jim and i Member Posts: 1,788 Member
    #6
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    Welcome Lonnie
    My husband, Jim finished treatment for base of tongue cancer 6 weeks ago. He did not have surgery so I can't help with that. I can pray and I will be sending prayers for you both.

    Debbie
  • patricke
    patricke Member Posts: 570
    #7
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    CANCER RETURN
    Hey Lonnie, I was treated 11 years ago for bsse of tongue cancer. A 5 cm tumor was removed via radical somethingectomy, as well as approximately 108 lymph nodes (several of which were positive for cancer cells), and follow-up consisted of 38 radiation sessions. In terms of what to expect, as you will no doubt see, every case varries depending on a variety of factors related to severity of the condition, and treatment (how much tissue is removed, radiation, chemo, etc.). I believe that whatever the severity of the condition, and the treatment received, that one of the most important factors for optimal recovery, is to have a positive attitude. I wish the best of outcomes for your SO.
  • hawk711
    hawk711 Member Posts: 566
    #8
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    patricke said:

    CANCER RETURN
    Hey Lonnie, I was treated 11 years ago for bsse of tongue cancer. A 5 cm tumor was removed via radical somethingectomy, as well as approximately 108 lymph nodes (several of which were positive for cancer cells), and follow-up consisted of 38 radiation sessions. In terms of what to expect, as you will no doubt see, every case varries depending on a variety of factors related to severity of the condition, and treatment (how much tissue is removed, radiation, chemo, etc.). I believe that whatever the severity of the condition, and the treatment received, that one of the most important factors for optimal recovery, is to have a positive attitude. I wish the best of outcomes for your SO.

    hey patricke
    Glad to see your post. Love to see the guys with 11 years post treatment.....your longevity give us all kinds of good feelings....i am 18 months pt and loving every day no matter what the day is like....I'm glad you posted and hope you continue....this is the first post of yours I've seen


    all the best,
    Steve

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