Realistic expectation...

[Piparskeggr]

Good evening all;

I joined MedHelp last year due to seeking information on my own heart problem, which  led to a pacemaker being implanted...

A few weeks ago my dad was diagnosed with lung cancer.

Until today, the scans, blood work, biopsies and so forth showed a single, Stage 3 tumor (about the size of a lemon) in his right lung.

In consultation today with his oncologist, a biopsy on his spleen showed that a second mass is, in deed, cancerous, though much smaller.

My dad has agreed to a more aggressive course of chemotherapy than previously thought necessary.  The course of radiation previously thought appropriate is no longer an option.

My family looks on things with a clear eye.

I know the information is minimal, but what are my realistic expectations?  I've accepted that the outcome is likely not good.  I'd just like an idea on how much time I moght have to prepare for the final shock.

Thanks - Pip

[LindaTX]

A lot depends on what kind of lung cancer your dad has. And how is his health in general?  Does he smoke?  I went through this with my mom 17 yrs ago, so I'm sure there are a lot more options now.  She was diagnosed with small-cell carcinoma.  She had stopped smoking the year before.  She did well through 6 mo of chemo with 3 very strong drugs, cis-platin, vincristine and one other.  The cancer appeared to be gone, but the oncologist said she should have radiation, I guess to insure that it wouldn't come back, and that was too much for her lungs. She passed away about 8 mo after her diagnosis.  The only other thing I can add is be sure your dad has a good Dr, either gen practice or internal med, to oversee his care.  He will need more than the oncologist. I have also heard good things about Cancer Centers of America. Good luck and God Bless

[Piparskeggr]

Good evening;

My mom and dad have a great deal of confidence in the oncologist, and in their primary care physician.

It looks like there is good communication all around.

I've not been told small cell or "normal" cell carcinoma, though what I've seen indicates the more "benign" form.

Thanks, truly...

Pip

[mary_kay]

It is true that there is quite a difference between small cell and large cell lung cancer.  Large cell is "slower" or I guess you could day less aggressive. There are drugs now that starve the tumor of blood flow like Tarceva.  As far as the time a person has left to live, none of us know the answer to that question...God bless

[Piparskeggr]

Ah, to answer more fully...my dad smoked 2 - 3 packs a day of "red box" Marlboros.  He also spent much of his working life as a boiler and furnace man (residential, commercial and industrial).

He quit smoking about 20 years ago and the boiler game (for the most part) about the same time.

There has been no mention of mesothilioma and the one small mass in the spleen is the only spread so far as they can find beyond the tumor in his lung.

Apparently, beyond the cancer, his lungs are still in good shape for his age (74).  Though I'd venture to guess there is some damage from the pneumonia, the treatment of which led to finding the cancer.

Thanks again - Pip