no treatment option for small cell lung cancer

My mother was recently diagnosed with small cell lung cancer.  She was scheduled for a lobectamy but it was cancelled when they founf the cancer had affected her lymph nodes.  After her latest dr's appt she came back and told the family that due to the harsh effects of chemo and radiation it was best if she did the "wait and see" option.  She told us this cancer was not noticably spreading and that she was to report to a doctor in 3 months or if she started feeling pain.  It is to my knowledge that sclc is fast moving and responds the best to chemo. My question is, is there such thing as waiting it out or is thi s last option of comfort for the cancer patient after the cancer has spread too far?

[november_rain]

Looks as though new infomation shows that it is non-small and they have removed 2 nodes but are not going ahead with a lobectomy for the tumor in the lung and are waiting to see if it spreads...This seems as though they are waiting to do something when its too late??!!

[hope86]

Hi November Rain,

I'm not a doctor but I know that cancer doesn't go away on its own and it never stops growing. I don't believe that there's a "wait and see" option. Cancer spreads and invades, that's what it does.
PS, my mom was diagnosed with non small cell lung cancer about 4 years ago.

[wheelsagogo]

hi i'm 57 years old ex smoker but very fit and active. I have had a Lobectomy. It is a big op and very painfull and still found it in nodes afterwards stage 4.Your Dr knows your Mothers condition best. Chemo &/or Rads are very hard on any ones body.Non small grows slowly,keep her up and moving doing things is the best thing your mother can do,
sorry if i have upset you but you Dr is right. all the best