cancer of the esophegus

Posted By  HFHSM.D.-ab on March 16, 1998 at 14:15:31:

In Reply to: cancer of the esophegus posted by mary c. on March 11, 1998 at 17:19:09:

: I'm looking for advice on cancer of the esophegus.  We learned 2/16/98 that
  my mom has stage 3 esophegial cancer.  From what I've read, this is nasty.
  What are we looking at here? and basically, what are treatment options? I'm
  afraid her doctor is not treating aggressively as he is only using cisplatin
  and 5-FU flouro...(can't recall the rest of the name).  No plans to radiate.
  I suggested Photodynamic therapy (PDT), surgery, cancer vaccines, and
  thalidime as options to check into, he was very unresponsive.
  I understand PDT is new, but approved by the FDA for stage 3 esophegus
  cancer, but we haven't found where it's available.  Any suggestions?
  Cancer vaccines.  I have read that there are some success with the cancer
  vaccines, both cancer-type specific, as well as some that are developed
  for the individual's cancer.  Do you have any knowledge of this?
  Do you know about the thalidime or have knowledge of other drugs keep new
  blood vessels from forming?  We're searching for help.  Any you can offer will
  be gratefully appreciated.  Thanks,  Mary

[HFHSM.D.-ab]

Dear Mary:

We are very sorry about your mother