Hi...

Hi Jiggs, I'm sorry for what you're going thru.  This stuff sucks!! 

Personally speaking, if I were in your shoes and the doctor continues to want to wait and watch, I'd likely seek a second opinion...and fast.  I would be more concerned with the word "complex" than the fact that there's been growth.  The fact that it's near an artery is even more alarming, IMO. 

My ct (with contrast) specifically said my tumor was complex and "likely renal cell carcinoma".  Please understand, I'm not suggesting the word "complex" indicates you have cancer, I'm just telling you what mine said.  I'm sure not all complex cysts are malignant. 

At any rate, I hope you get answers soon.  For me, the wait is always the hardest part.  I have a worst case scenario imagination, little patience and zero tolerance for bs.  When I was where you are now, I almost drove myself right over the edge of insanity, imagining the worst.  Dr google didn't help...just pushed me closer to the edge. 

After 34 years of protecting and serving others, you now will need to focus on protecting yourself.  That means getting copies of all your medical records, including ct reports.  Once you get them, read them.  You'd be amazed at what you'll learn. 

I hope you'll keep us posted. 

Prayers going up for you tonight!

Sindy

icemantoo said:

My thoughts

Jiggs,

 

It sounds like your doctor's demeanor has changed because he can no longer offer wait and watch and the hoped for it wouldn't get worse is no longer in the cards.

As you have no doubt read here a neph is not the end of the world and will most likely be a total cure for a small or relatively small tumor. Mine was 12 years ago. Faye across the street had hers at 64 and she is approaching 82 or so. She us fine still, but Ed (her husband) uses a walker.

Strange that the spouse with RCC is the healthier of the two. Or maybe not so strange.

Icemantoo

Hi Jiggs...  Please review all your concerns  with your doctor.. and if he/she hesitates in any way... run to a new doctor..  From what you said, perhaps either way you may want to get a second opinion.  Not sure how much experience your current doctor has with Kidney Cancer.. but you may wish to find out..  This is just my hunch...

Good Luck..

Ron

Karen0074 said:

Hi jiggs, it's sounds like

Hi jiggs, it's sounds like you and me are in the same place at the moment. 2 years ago it was noticed I had something harmless on my left kidney and now it has grown and become complex. it needs to go, so you can get on with your life. We can compare notes. 

 

Karen x

until it gets out of their ability. That means that they don't always refer a patient until things get critical. So, since this is a potential problem, it is time to get a kidney specialist. There is such a major difference in the way a specialist will handle things. Get the referral, and move on with enjoying your retirement. Whatever happens, take some control.