Unusual scans and started Chemo today

[MaineRottweilers]

I started chemotherapy today. It was a breeze so far!! We'll see what tomorrow brings. I was also given some interesting information about the scans I had last week. MUGA was just fine but my CT scans had some abnormalities. They found a cyst like lesion on one of my ovaries and also three axillary lymph nodes under my right arm ( the side of my good breast). THey were concerned enough to U/S my axillary region once my infusions were finished. Of course it was too late in the afternoon to have anyone interpret for me. Radiologist was very firm that I spoke with my oncologist.

I am scheduled for a PET scan and repeat CT on July 1 to confirm the ovarian problem. Anyone have any input? Am I likely to be going back to surgery and if so, will they wait until I finish my six Chemo treatments or will they just do it? I know there are no definites...I'm just looking to hear anecdotes, experiences or suppositions. Thanks.

[Lani]

I would guess they will order an MRI of your "good" breast to make sure you don't have bilateral disease. This may be preceeded by a mammogram or US depending when your last ones of the "good" breast were. They may US and fine needle biopsy your lymph nodes on the "good side" and/or do a core biopsy of any lesion found on mammo/US/MRI on your good side.

For needle/core procedures not sure how many platelets and WBCs they think you will need to avoid bleeding/infection ie, whether you need to stop chemo to have them.

Many have benign cysts on their ovaries. If you are not BRCA positive don't know that they will be in a hurry to work it up, but they may order a pelvic
ultrasound--that is done partially aiming the US wand from the outside and partly by placing the ultrasound wand intravaginally.

I am just surmising based on my rather extensive reading of the literature.

I am not qualified in any way to advise you so I am just giving you a general review of what the literature says might be used to work up your cyst and lymph nodes. Haven't a clue whether chemo might need to be stopped for any of the invasive surgical procedures--hope this helps!

[NEDenise]

MR-
First, congrats on coming through such a stressful day with your spirit intact! Your inner strength and "I'm gonna kick this" attitude shine through!

Next, take a deep breath, and focus on taking care of yourself in the next few days. Chemo side effects and fatigue can be a real pain. Don't "borrow trouble". If, and that's a BIG if...IF there's anything in those nodes or that cyst that should cause you angst...there's plenty of time to focus on them LATER...when and IF they've earned your attention.

And...as expected around here...Lani has given LOTS of good information above. IMHO if the nodes or the cyst turn out to be 'troublesome'... any chemo you would need to fight 'the beast' there would likely be the same one you're already using.

At any rate...my advice is...don't let fear of what might turn up, wreck the good feelings you're having for tackling, and beating chemo/cancer in round one of your own little smackdown! That's good stuff!

Lifting you up in prayer...and sending applause for round one...well done!
Denise

[MaineRottweilers]

Thanks for the good advice. Chemo has wiped me out. Just walking to the mailbox and back was a chore. I've managed to put the scan abnormalities out of my head for the time being. They don't make a bit of difference today, just keeping one foot in front of the other is my goal. Thanks for the coaching and hand holding. I'll have the info sooner than I want I am sure. This cancer poop sure is annoying.

Bless you all, fight on!