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Radiation for sqamous cell in situ

Phoebs
Phoebs CSN Member Posts: 1
edited March 2014 in Head and Neck Cancer #1
My cancer is pre-invasive sqamous cell on right vocal cord. The chord has been stripped twice, and they thought that it had cleared, however 4 months later voice was playing up again. Another biopsy, and I was told it was back, but still only "in situ". Now they want me to have radiotherapy, but I am very concerned about the enormity of the side effects, in relation to such an early cancer. Does anyone have any experience in this? I am also wondering about any therapy alternatives...
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  • AuthorUnknown
    AuthorUnknown CSN Member Posts: 1,537 Member
    #2
    Hello,

    You may want to contact the American Cancer Society's National Cancer Information Center. Cancer Information Specialists are available 24 hours a day and can assist you with your questions. They can be reached at 1-800-227-2345 or by clicking on the "Contact ACS" link at the top of the page.

    Take care and be well,

    Dana
    CSN Dana
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  • uksweetheart
    uksweetheart CSN Member Posts: 1
    #3
    I had radiotherapy for early cancer of my larynx and so far touch wood with the 7 check ups I've had since I've been given the all clear, the side effects are out weighed by hearing the dr say every month everything looks wonderful.. just in case you're interested I created a web page all about my cancer here is the link, http://www.uksweetheart.co.uk/cancer/ hope all goes well for you..
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  • johnhayse
    johnhayse CSN Member Posts: 4
    #4
    I had squamous cell on base of my tounge about 5 yrs ago radiation ad chemo which did the trick make sure if you go into radiation treatment you do IMRT it will save your vocal chords and leave you with much less side effects god bless
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  • dcampbel55
    dcampbel55 CSN Member Posts: 1
    #5
    I had cystic squamous cell at the base of tongue that spread to a lymph node. I had the node removed and radation and chemo to treat the primary tumor at the base of my tongue.
    I finished up treatment at the end of November 06. The side effects were a lot of pain in the throat (I eventually had to have a feeding tube inserted), weight loss, dry mouth, fatigue and unable to swallow. It's slowly getting better. I can swallow (with difficulty) and am feeling a bit better. Make no mistake, it's a tough road but well worth the effort. Like johnhayse I had IMRT luckily directed by one of the doctors who pioneered the idea at the University of Michigan Hospital. And I'm told my throat structures came through fairly well so if it's on option in treatment for anyone I recommend it. By now I assume you've gone through treatment since the date on your note coincided with when I learned of my cancer. I hope all went well and good luck!
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