Newly diagnosed HCC, surgical revision already done.

krasno536
krasno536 Member Posts: 2
in Liver Cancer #1

Wow-what a ride! First I had abnormal ALFP (already had Hep C) quickly followed by CT which found a mass and MRI confirmed HCC. Just two months since MRI and I've already had laparoscopic surgery to remove last week. Not a horrible recovery though I still need a little Percocet (almost out). Two questions:

1. Suggested f/u? Never saw an oncologist, just the hepatologic surgeons. I'm seeing my MD after New Year's for her input.

2. In early stage HCC has anyone else had the "I have cancer? I don't feel like it. As a matter of fact I OK." Everyone is telling me how "strong" I am. I've been a little weepy once or twice but guess it hasn't hit me yet. I know that no one can tell another HOW to feel but I was wondering about your  emotional reactions in response to your initial diagnosis?

Comments

  • krasno536
    krasno536 Member Posts: 2
    edited December 2016 #2
    Add:

    I meant to say it was about 2 1/2 weeks after the MRI was done a biopsy was done so I've known my diagnosis for about 6 or 7 weeks.

  • Jay047
    Jay047 Member Posts: 1
    #3
    I know the feeling. Had Hep C

    I know the feeling. Had Hep C which was cured with Harvoni 2 years ago. Didn't know about HCC until a routine MRI follow up of my kidney found one. Had it laparoscopically removed last October. Yes, I'm very concerned about a recurrence and am taking a number of herbs, etc. including turmeric and frankense oil as preventative measures. Also changed my diet to eliminate inflammation as much as possible. Have a follow up MRI scheduled for 3/1. 

  • mingming56
    mingming56 Member Posts: 1
    #4
    to newly diagnosed

    sorry this is a bit late.  I wanted to give a little high five and support to you and Jay.  I am an HCC survivor 10 years cancer free as of January.  Had a resection done and yes it is a wild ride.  stuff happened for me so fast I did not have a moment to take a breath.  I had an MRI one day and the next 2 days I was in surgery.  did not have a biopsy initially as I refused and told them they could do it when the tumor was removed. I could not believe it all.  I also suffered with survivors guilt as I met many who have since died.  The oncologist told me that I would not meet many survivors.  He was wrong.  I was scared shitless of recurrance and the first 5 years I was holding my breath waiting for the other shoe to drop.  It is good to stay healthy, to change your diet, to exercise and enjoy your life.  I took a boat load of supplements and after surgery headed to Mexico for 3 weeks for immunotherapy.  I hope this helps you both.  we can survive this.  

  • Liverger56
    Liverger56 Member Posts: 2
    #5
    Thanks for the help and congrats mingming56!

    Wow, so glad to see your post and congrats on more than 10 years cancer free.  I had cirrhosis for more than 25 years now and got rid of my Hep C (two and half years ago.) Two weeks ago, I saw my PCP and told me my MRI showed a 5.5cm mass/tumor in my liver and I needed to see my Gastro Dr.  Yesterday, I found out from my Gastro Dr that I have HCC (I was shocked to hear about it - and I didn't ask about any details except that) and now I am being set up to go to a bigger hospital at St. Luke's - Liver Transplant Specialist.  I don't know what to do, but I feel fine, eating well and no weight loss.  Next week I will probably see them and it could happen as fast as yours.  Did you have cirrhosis then, as well? Why did you refuse a biopsy at the beginning? What kind of supplements did you take and are taking now? What type of immunotherapy? Thanks for your input and any help/info will be grateful.

  • Liver cancer
    Liver cancer Member Posts: 52 Member
    #6
    Congrats.

    My doctor really doesn't want to break the liver pouch, the protective casing the liver sits in. I have liver cancer, but no history of liver disease or damage. I have been taking daily chemotherapy by pill. I am supportive of your cancer cure and wish you many more years. I was diagnosed in 2002.

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