Is there a time when recurrence is most likely to occur?

[libbyisi]

I am wondering if there is a particular period of time post-treatment that ovca recurs?  (For instance, is it most likely to recur in the first 5 years after treatment, and then after that period of time your chances of recurrence decreases?)  I know that the stage of cancer is certainly a factor, but is there a general rule for this?

I have been finished with chemo for 2 months (stage Ic, carbo/taxotere)

[BeachGal7]

Hi Libbyisi, I know it's nerve wrecking, but there isn't that much difference for clear cell these days - just refer to this website:
http://cat.inist.fr/?aModele=afficheN&cpsidt=2476458

Here's a story that you might want to read:
http://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/423240

[libbyisi]

I had clear cell carcinoma, which I do understand is aggressive.  Do you know recurrence stats for that type?

(Thanks to everyone for your responses)

Best, Libby

[BeachGal7]

Hi Libbyisi, What type of ovarian cancer cell do you have - do you know?  If it's serous cell, then the stats mentioned here apply.  If it's clear cell, then it's a completely different ball game as this type of cell is very very aggressive.  Best wishes!

[westerwitch]

I personally think of my cure as happening on the day of surgery and mentally count from there. Technically, I think the count starts at the end of chemo and now that I'm thinking of it, my CA-125 didn't start dropping into normal range until after first chemo so guess date of last chemo is as good a place to measure. Yeah, that graduation to 6  appointments is a little scary, but also reassuring in a way. Like, maybe this cancer won't be the death of me after all.

[dian07]

From where do you measure....from diagnosis or from the end of chemo?  I was diagnosed IC in May of '05 and so far so good as far as I know.....my appts have been stretched to the 6 month stage and it is making me nervous....those trhree month appts were like a security balanket.....my next appt is in October but I think I will push it up to September just because!  I will cross my fingers for you as well.....good luck!
Libbyisi.....way to go girl.....catching it that early.....wow.
Peace.
dian

[westerwitch]

I was diagnosed as Stage 1c in October 2004. Finished 4 rounds of chemo in January of 2005. My oncologist said that for stage 1 if no recurrence in 5 years they can actually start whispering the word "cure." After that, there is a greater chance of a 2nd primary than a recurrence. For all stages of OVCA, the greatest incidence of recurrence is during the first 24 months and drops off significantly after that. Go for my check up next month which will bring me up to nearly 3 years. My fingers are crossed or me and for you. Good luck!

[SimplyStar]

With stage one your chances that the chemo got it all are very good.  Just keep up with your appointments for testing and if you notice any thing that suggests it might be recurring, get to the doctor.  Good Luck