question 2nd opinions

Radioactive34
Radioactive34 Member Posts: 391 Member
in Colorectal Cancer #1
My family history contains a large number of cancers including colon cancer. My sister had a colonoscopy and they advised the 2 polyps were non cancerous. They told her that she could have the colonoscopy redone in 5 years. She is 40.

I had her contact a specialist a few hours away. They reviewed her file. They were concerned and she has an appt in a couple of weeks. She has a mass in her lower abdomen that is not connected to her reproductive system and/or apparently visibly attached through the colon. She has symptoms consistent with ovarian or pp cancer.

Interestingly enough the specialist I contacted was a gynonc and they referred her to the doctor that handles the colon cancer in the cancer center. They felt the colonoscopy needed to be reviewed again. How often were 2nd opinions needed by people here?

I am concerned and curious. I am also unable to access internet out in the country so may take a while to respond to any responses.

Thanks

Comments

  • Lovekitties
    Lovekitties Member Posts: 3,364 Member
    #2
    Good Job
    So very glad you had her look for a second opinion.

    The scope would not have found the abdomen mass, but certainly should have raised flags.

    No doctor is infalible, but with a family history of colon cancer and 2 polyps found (even if non-cancerous) it seems like 5 years is too long to wait for another scope.

    Getting a second opinion is always advisable if the patient is not comfortable with the information given by the current doctor. We have to be our own best advocate. When in doubt, always go for the second opinion.

    Wishing your sister best outcome.

    Marie who loves kitties
  • Doc_Hawk
    Doc_Hawk Member Posts: 685
    #3
    2nds
    My onc is one of the best in this state and has some pretty impressive credentials including a specialty in cancer research for UC Davis. Over the past year, he has inspired a lot of confidence in me and I trust him completely. Regardless, after the turns in my response to treatment I'm going to get a second (and maybe third) opinion from some other oncs in the area. Getting a fresh pair of eyes on a problem can't hurt.

Discussion Boards