NSLC Adenocarcinoma Advanced stage

Fran83
Fran83 Member Posts: 12
edited March 2014 in Lung Cancer #1
My mother was recently diagnosed with NSCLC adenocarcinoma.

She has a malignant mass in her mediastinum and it spread to her lungs, lymph nodes.
First the doctor said that she was stage 2 but recently we found out that she might have metastesis in her brain and her bones (skull and right upper arm).... so i suppose that would mean that it now is stage 4! I have no idea since her doctor does not really give her all the details. My mom really doesn't know which questions to ask....

She has started brain radiation to take care of the brain metastesis and she will soon do some rounds of chemo. Her doctor adviced her to rest for 1 month before starting chemo. I am really worried because 1 month seems to be such a long time to wait. What if the cancer cells re-oxygenate or what if it spreads even further...


I am getting really frustrated and frightened because we got several medical opinions and each doctor has a different interpretation of the best treatment possible.... Anyone have any advice with regards to possible treatment? radio? chemo? how often? a break after radio?

i would really appreciate some advice. My mom is only 51 years old.

Thank you in advance.
Fran

Comments

  • 4thecause
    4thecause Member Posts: 2
    #2
    I understand how you feel!
    Hi Fran, I am so sorry to hear about your mom's recent diagnosis. I suggest that you speak with the doctor that you're most comfortable with and try to get a clear understanding of the course of treatment for your mom. It is so important for you to understand so that you have a comfort level with all that's going on with your mom.

    How far along is she with her radiation treatment?

    I understand your frustration and fear. My 73 year old mother was recently diagnosed with stage IV NSCLC with mets to the lumbar spine. She has had one round of chemo of Paraplatin and Alimta, and did fairly well. Her next treatment is on May 27th, and will continue in three week intervals. After 6-8 total rounds of chemo, her oncologist will scan and see what's going on. If necessary, he may then do radiation to the area on the spine.

    I hope this helps!

    4thecause
  • ARobben
    ARobben Member Posts: 46
    #3
    a little advice
    I don't know that I can offer a ton of advice, but I am currently fighting Stage 4 NSCLC. I've just gotten through 6 rounds of chemo, but the doctors advised against radiation in my case.

    As far as the doctors, I've learned that most of them aren't fond of telling you any more than you ask for. Probably they are afraid of scaring people. But it's important to for you and your mom to know, if you want to know something, ask! If you're like me, you never think of the questions until later on. Write them down, or don't be afraid to give your doctor a call if you have any questions that arise.

    Hope this helps and best of luck to you and your mom!

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