Nasopharyngeal carcinoma slow or fast growing

hi susanne, i don't know if
hi susanne, i don't know if it's fast or slow growing. i checked many of the medical sites i've used to investigate my dad's cancer and can't seem to find any answers there either. i did read that 90% of head and neck cancer is squamous cell carcinoma so your husband's cancer may be similar to my dad's.

it started the same, dad was treated for sinus infections and examined by many doctors over a period of 2 years as well. it seems that this cancer is usually diagnosed in later sstages because it is difficult to recognize as cancer until it's very advanced.

dad's tumour was very slow growing throughout the 2 yrs, until a doctor said it was a benign lump and tried to remove it. she hadn't realized it had extended into his sinus until she operated and only removed half. the cancer spread rapidly during the month waiting for biopsy results.

he had radical surgery removing half the bone and tissue in his face and tests showed he was cancer free until they did a biopsy of an unusal spot in december, and again the cancer seems to be growing rapidly, pressing on the nerves of his face.

so from what i can see, it is a slow growing cancer until it is disturbed. and is reported to respond well to radiation treatment. i'm not sure if this helps you at all, i hope your husband is doing well now.

elaine

sams@ntcallaway.com said:

Hi Elaine
Thank you for your
Hi Elaine
Thank you for your input.I really appreciate it.Did your dad have nasopharyngeal cancer too?How did he fare through the grueling treatment?Robert had a peg tube placed early on, has lost over 40 pounds and is weak,disoriented often and unstable on his feet as well.He suffers terrible mouth sores and sore throats (especially while undergoing radiation).We're almost there.One more round in the hospital next week for chemo and then,fingers crossed!!

Susanne

hi suzanneno, my dad has
hi suzanne
no, my dad has squamous cell carcinoma of the maxillary sinus. he hasn't been well since the surgery, his mouth hasn't healed and as the second batch of cancer grows, the pain has become unbearable. he hasn't been able to use his prothsesis very often over the last six months so has lost a ton of weight already. he drinks ensure, soups, pureed stews, smoothies, anything mom can think of that's drinkable. we are waiting for his radiation to be scheduled, they promised this week but so far no word.

i'm so glad your husband is almost finished treatment, fingers crossed for you i've read many suggestions here to relieve the mouth sores/sore throat. i bought the biotene products people suggested and my dad tried it this weekend, he said it provided immediate relief, maybe this would help your husband?

elaine