1st round of doxil ca125 doubles

[Oregondaughter]

Well, just got the test results from the nurse for my mom's ca-125 levels.  After one round of Doxil she went from 455 to 944.  I was told that it is suppose to take a few rounds to know if it's working, and levels could continue to rise, but it was my impression that "rise a bit," like a few points, not double.  I got the sense from the nurse that this was really not good.  She's scheduled for a third round on May 4th and is going in later this week to have her abdomine drained.  Just when I think that I can't get surprised anymore, well there you go.  This one is really hitting me hard.  I thought the Doxil would at least slow her cancer growth.  Why is nothing working for her?  If you ran into her downtown you wouldn't even know she was sick.  She is so full of life.  This is so so so wrong.  My grandma just died 8 months ago at 93, I miss her every day.  My mom was suppose to live another 30 years.  I just can't stand it.  I love my ladies, they are so awesome.

Denyc

[Alisa42]

Hi Denyc,

Just got back from beach camping with my family and immediately went to the site to see how your Mom was doing and how Jan was holding up.  I am so sorry that you continue to feel this dispair.  My goodness I so "get it".  

I am happy to hear that your Mom is daily living life with you and your children.  She sounds like an amazingly strong woman...what a blessing:)

Denyc hold on tight to God and His perfect hope.  I am always praying for you!!!!!

Alisa

[VANative]

Hi Denyc,
I can so relate to your post. I do hope the Doxil works for your Mom.  I know my Moms Dr always trys to give her at least 3 cycles before she tries something else.  My Mom's CA-125 also increased on Doxil . They also tried Topotecan.  Neither worked.  Thankfully they found a combo that she is responding to, Gemzar and Carbo.  It was a tough time and I really was concerned. Now, I think it is just part of the cycle...finding that chemo that she responds to.  I really hope your Mom does start to respond, but there are others they can try.  It is definitely a roller coaster ride.  Take care and I hope your Mom begins to respond. Janice

[gah_70]

I was told the reason many people's CA125's rise in the beginning with Doxil is because it is actually attacking the cancer cells, and splitting them up to kill them.  So when you get a CA125 drawn, there will appear to be more cancer cells because it is measuring the pieces...so there would naturally be more there to measure.  As they die over a period of time, the CA125 will start to drop again.  I hope this is what's happening with your mom, and she'll see a more realistic number after a few treatments.  When she is infused, do they put ice packs on her wrists and ankles?  If she starts to get the skin problems associated with it, that can sometimes help.  It slows circulation into hands and feet so less of it is actually reaching those areas.  My chemo nurse would actually tie mine on for me, and other patients in the chemo room thought I was being restrained!  Ha!  Sucking on ice chips can also help with mouth sores that may occur.

Best wishes to you and your mom.  I hope you are able to share some good news really soon.

Gail  

[ladyjogger31]

Hi , I was on Doxil and it takes about your 4th treatment before you see a big drop. Please becarful as it can affect her skin. Don't have her wear anything tight as it can cause blisteing and rashes. Keep positive. I will be saying prayers for your Mom.
Hugs, Terry

[dian07]

I am so sorry your mom and you are being dealt such a difficult hand.  Hopefully things will change in the near future.  All you can do is hang in there and offer as much support as you can.  Make certain you take care of yourself in the process as well.....your mom needs to know you are healthy.
Peace.
dian