Cetuximab and Radiation

Nonni1947

This  is my first post, primarily because I have not found a kindred spirit on this discussion board.  On February 26, I had a cancerous (SCC)  removed from my cheek.  It was not in the parotid gland, but near the duct.  There was no evidence of a primary source  The tumor was sitting on the facial muscle, and was discreet. Three different doctors thought it was a cyst.  The fourth did a  FNB,and then ordered a CAT scan Feb.23,  diagnosed Feb. 25, removed Feb. 26.  my surgeon was phenomenal.  No injury to facial nerve or muscle.  Six weeks later I began cetuximab weekly for 6 weeks, while concurrently receiving 30 radiation treatments.   Side effects for Cetuximab: horrendous rash which eventually had to be treated by a dermatologist.  Two weeks after Cetuximab treatment has ended,  the rash is resolving.  I am having more difficulty with the side effects of the radiation.  Sore tongue, dry mouth, mucous.  I cannot tolerate the lack of taste, so my diet is protein shakes.  Nevertheless,  I would definitely do the Cetuximab, and the radiation.   Aggressive action is necessary to defeat the beast.  

Nonni1947

Thanks, Matt.  Waiting for

Thanks, Matt.  Waiting for that day,

CivilMatt

it just takes time

 

Nonni1947,

Welcome to the H&N forum, where many of us have used Erbitux.

I was stage IVa, scc, bot, 1 lymph node, hpv+ (surgery, rads & Erbitux).  Yes, the side effects of Erbitux clear up quickly, but that darn radiation is a persistent pain in the a _ _.  It took me many months for my “new normal” to include semi-normal eating.

If you follow a similar path you will have a happy food future, which might include roasting hot dogs, like I am going to do RIGHT NOW!

Good luck,

Matt