Cholangiocarcinoma Positive Response

I was diagnosed with cholangiocarcinoma in June 2011 and have been undergoing treatment for the past 10 months. In appreciation for others who have shared there stories, I wanted to share some of my information in hopes that it may help others. I initially had a liver resection last June and the pathology showed clear margins. However, my cancer returned had returned by December 2011 and had spread to my spine and sternum in addition to a spot on my liver.

Following my liver resection, my doctors at Lexington Clinic consulting with Cleveland Clinic recommended a course of chemotherapy consisting of 5 FU and leucovorin. As mentioned above, it did not prevent the cancer from returning. My doctor then consulted with Mayo Clinic and switched my regimen to gemzar and cisplatin which I continued from December until February 2012. Fortunately this regimen prevented any additional growth or spread of my cancer but did not shrink the lesions.

In response, my doctor consulted with Mayo Clinic and again switched my chemo regimen. I am currently still taking gemzar but now also receive oxalaplatin and avastin. I just had a follow up PET Scan this week and my tumors are all shrinking and show signs of cell death. I feel good and other than side effects from the chemo, I continue to work full time and lead a full life 10 months after diagnosis. I am continuing the same regimen and pray that the regression will continue and that good things are ahead. My insurance company has been very resistant to covering my current chemo regimen but my doctor was very persistent and was able to get it covered and it clearly is working so far. I share this information so that others may hopefully benefit and keep fighting against this terrible disease.