scans-stage IV
 

How often do you have a PET scan?

Re: scans-stage IV
 

I've been Stage IV since my primary dx in 2002 & for the most part, get PET scans q12 weeks, but it also depends on the regimen I'm on.
I've gotten scanned as often as q6 wks when on a clinical trial and pushed as much as q16 wks when on a standard regimen like Gemzar/Herceptin.
Currently I'm getting scanned q9wks because I'm on Halaven+Herceptin, which is dosed 2 weeks on, 1 week off = 1 cycle, and we scan after 3 cycles.
In fact, I've just finished my 6th cycle and am scheduled for scans on Tuesday, 1/3
I guess this is all to say, it depends - if you're on active treatment and what the regimen cycle is.

Hope this is helpful & not more confusing!

Jml

Re: scans-stage IV
 

Since my stage IV dx, I scan ever 8 weeks. Last scan showed significant regression (October), and most recent one showed progression (2 weeks ago). Until I show stable for several scans in a row, I will continue to scan that often.

Re: scans-stage IV
 

Hema was diagnosed in stage IV. After the first one the secind was after the chemoregime was over and the next after a year.In between she had an ultrasound of her abdomen and her chest x-rayed.Her next ultrasound and chest xray are fixed for the end of Jan.

Re: scans-stage IV
 

I used to get PET/CTs every 4-6 months depending on how I was feeling. More recently I'm on a trial and get a CT Scan every six weeks.