PET scan result

Hi all-haven't been on this site for a long time but got a lot of comfort from it when my husband originally diagnosed. The story is he had rectal cancer diagnosed 2004-stage 3 with pre op chemoradiotherapy,surgery and post op chemo. He has been well ever since with no problems until Oct2010 when he developed some hip pain and erectile problems. had CT and MRI which showed just some thickening in one of his pelvic muscles and he had a sl raised CEA at 6.0 (prev <2). PET scan has showed a "hot spot" in same muscle and they don't know what to do about it-they are worried(as we are of course) about recurrence.He is now being referred to someone in London(we are UK based) to see whether it should be biopsied etc. I feel so worried and stressed its like when it all first happened and I'm not sure how we will cope.Does anyone have any experience of anything like this-any advice on coping as well greatly appreciated. he is only 38 and we have 2 small children aged 3 and 6.many thanks

Comments

  • Crow71
    Crow71 Member Posts: 679 Member
    Hey Kelly. I'm sorry that I
    Hey Kelly. I'm sorry that I don't have any experience with what you are going through, except to say that I am 39 with a 5 year old son, and two daughters age 9 and 11; so I understand the worry of having cancer and young kids.

    I sounds like your husband did great the first time. I'm sure it wasn't easy, but he made it. You just have to believe he'll do as well this time too.

    Take care. Stay focused. Keep us informed. Hopefully someone will be able help.

    Roger
  • taraHK
    taraHK Member Posts: 1,952 Member
    Must be such a scary time for you. I'm glad you have a referral for further investigations. If they can't do a biopsy for any reason (and even if they can), can they do a PET scan? That might give you the information you need. When is your London referral. Are you on the NHS? I know waitlng lists can sometimes be long -- would a few phone call 'reminders' (gentle nudges!) help? (Also on the PET issue -- I don't know how reluctant/keen they are to arrange that....Sometimes being a squeeky wheel can help!

    A recurrence can be so devasting -- for me, possibly more devasting that the initial diagnosis.

    But - you aren't there yet! Fingers and toes crossed that this is "something else"! Until you get the news, "Feed the faith, fight the fear".

    Love,
    Tara
  • tootsie1
    tootsie1 Member Posts: 5,044 Member
    Sorry
    I'm sorry that you and your husband have this new worry. I pray it will be something else, but the best thing (as I see it)is to go ahead and find out as quickly as possible. I think it's always best to know what you're dealing with.

    Praying for wonderful results!

    *hugs*
    Gail