Next steps

mvalkosky97

Clear cell renal cell carcinoma per surgeon was contained to kidney. Tumor was something like 6cm. Saw oncology yesterday and heading for a brain MRI and PET scan. Hubby doesn't ask questions so I don't know why he is having a brain scan!! So nervous. I first was excited to hear it was contained. Now terrified something is going to pop up somewhere.

stub1969

I think...

The doctor is just covering all the bases to make sure there is no progression.  Even though the pathology said it was contained, there is still a chance that cancer cells traveled and settled.  I applaud your doctor for being thorough.  Once this is completed and you get the all clear--make sure you keep up with ongoing scans.  Do you have a scan schedule yet? 

Good luck!

Stub

Bay Area Guy

RCC can pop up in a variety

RCC can pop up in a variety of places, so your doc is just acting out of an abundance of caution.  Your husband will be getting a CT or MRI and a chest X-ray a minimum of every six months for a while.  That's the minimum follow-up.  I had my partial neph done in June, 2016, so I've had two CT's in that time, both showing all clear.  My doc moved me into one scan a year Since there were no signs of anything.

Best wishes for your husband amd, just as importantly, for you.

mvalkosky97

We were just told by surgeon

We were just told by surgeon he needs a follow up scan in 6 months, but that was before seeing oncology. I assume if the first set of tests are clear he will still follow up again in 6 months. I am glad he is being thorough! Is just making me more nervous instead of more calm. Thank you all!

hardo718

Scanxiety affects more than the patient

Thank God the doctor is being thorough.  I feel for you tho and pray you get the all clear.

Let us know.

Donna~