feeling scared

Cherri -

I know this is scary. Have you asked for a PET scan? Yes, it is worrisome that something shows up on a CT and not previously, but it is also the case that radiologists choose to comment upon different things at different times. And reading a CT is at least part art - not just pure science. Were all your CT's done / read by the same person? Even so, the mood of the day may cause them to mention something they previously did not mention. A PET can add another layer of truth on top of a CT and you should request one. There is a chance these results have no clinical significance, but I would certainly get a PET scan before I believed that.

Just so you know - hope this helps instead of worrying your more - I had a spot on my liver show up on CT after diagnosis, before surgery - later determined to be of no clinical significance, but alas, still had mild (is there such a thing) liver mets which biopsied positive during colon surgery (not in same place indicated by CT) and lit up "a little" on PET.

One step at a time, honey. So, ask about the PET and when you find out more, feel free to email on this site and I can tell you more about my situation.

Hopefully others can help you with the colostomy issues.

Take care,
Betsy

Hello Cherri,

I agree with Betsy. I have heard it from my mother's oncologist that different people read CT scans differently at different times. I would request PET scan. And please try not to worry, maybe it is just a mistake. Just get more information.

I hope and pray that it is nothing of a problem.

Best wishes and God Bless.
Eleonora

Cherri,
Sounds like a rough post op course for you; I know there will be better days once you start feeling better.
I had 2 spots on my liver seen during the CT scan of my initial post-diagnosis work-up, and they WERE nothing. Hang in there; are you getting good advice about any colostomy problems? Hang in there. Judy

Aw, Cherri! I am holding you soooo tight! I have 3 'spots' on my liver that were reported before surgery, found to be nothing during surgery, and now, since once reported, get reported on every darn time I have any kind of scan....sigh....LEAVE US ALONE, BEAST!!!!!
I had, and still, a year later have, occasional bouts with cramps....your bowel HATES to be disturbed!!!!! It WILL get better...stay strong my dear angel.

Hugs, Kathi

vinny3 said:

I can't remember when your surgery was. I had cramps for about 4-6 wks after the same type of surgery. Found I was better when I didn't take meds. Try to avoid caffeine and other stimulants. Have you seen your stoma nurse? Mine was very helpful with any colostomy problems, much better than the surgeon's office. If you have specific colostomy problems feel free to email me.
It does get better.

****

I forgot to mention about the spots. My surgeon would always call me after my CT scans and read it and describe all the spots they found. But they were nothing and my PET scan was negative. Different radiologists will give a different report and some may not even mention small spots that they think are nothing. It helps to get a copy of each of your reports. You can compare that way and it helps in getting your questions answered.

Just wanted to add my support and prayers. I assume you have an appt to discuss with doc. Ask about a pet scan (the only time they won't do it is if the lesion is too small) Good luck!
Mary

Cherri,

My CAT scan showed two spots on my liver. An MRI the same day ruled them to be cysts. Hang in there... not all spots are created equal!

i am sending hugs your way. I would also want a pet scan.

I can help you with the ostomy. Email me.

remember it does get better.

Maureen

Cherri,
Jeez, I am sorry you are feeling so scared. I agree with the PET scan crew. Ask for one. Try not to worry until you are sure. It could be nothing important and you will have worried yourself silly(I am the BEST at that!). I am thinking of you.
Hugs,
Taunya