The Cancer Survivors Network (CSN) is a peer support community for cancer patients, survivors, caregivers, families, and friends! CSN is a safe place to connect with others who share your interests and experiences.

Thank you for being a part of the Cancer Survivor Network community. Survivors and caregivers like you have played a unique role in fostering an online environment that encourages connection among those needing support, community, and education. On May 28, the Network will be discontinued. More details are available here . If you have any questions, contact CSNSupportTeam@cancer.org. Thanks again for the support you’ve provided each other over the years. We remain committed to supporting you in other ways throughout your cancer journey.

"TPF" chemo on advanced throat cancer???

dmac
dmac CSN Member Posts: 1
edited March 2014 in Head and Neck Cancer #1
My father was recently diagnosed with a stage IV squamous cell tumor which originated in the larynx. The oncologist's recommended treatment was to start with 3 sessions of "TPF" (T=Taxotere, P=Platinum, F=FU5) chemo followed by double dose radiation and finally salvage surgery if any of the cancer persisted. The doctor gave me articles and case studies to reference to learn more about the treatment. The survival numbers seemed good, but were only in the 3rd year after treatment. The chances of experiencing a high level of toxicity (3 or 4) from the treatments seemed to be extremely high also. The oncologist told my father he would have to be in the hospital for the infusion at the beginning of each cycle of the treatment and there was a good shot he would have to stay in to recover from each chemo treatment for days afterward. It sounds like an extremely aggressive treatment that will have major side effects. Has anyone been through it and if so, please give me some insight into it if you care to share. Thanks.
Like Care

Discussion Boards