Blog post #5 - Results of PET scan and meeting with oncologist

First of all, apologies to those who may have missed some of the previous posts. To see all the posts about Philip's health, type (or paste):

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Today the oncologist, Dr Sayed Ali, met with Philip, Maureen and Jocelyn and delivered the PET scan results. The scan unfortunately showed lots of active cancer sites in Philip's body, including in his lungs, liver, bones and lymph nodes. The oncologist classified Philip's cancer as being at Stage 4, which means that treatment is directed to slowing the progress of the cancer, not curing it.

The immediate concern is with cancer in one of the vertebrae in Philip's spine, specifically thoracic vertebra number 8, which is in the mid-back (level with the base of the sternum). The doctors are concerned that it may collapse and place pressure on the spinal cord, which would cause pain and potentially weakness of limbs, so Philip had an MRI tonight to examine the extent of degradation. The MRI images will help the doctors decide whether Philip needs to receive immediate targeted radiation treatment to slow the deterioration of the vertebra, prior to starting chemotherapy.

Philip is awaiting the results of a molecular study of his cancer to determine whether he is one of the 10% of people with adenocarcinoma of the lung who have the EGFR or ALK sub-types. These sub-types respond much better to a specific oral chemotherapy. The molecular study results are expected in about a week, but Philip probably won't have the implications explained to him until his next appointment with the oncologist in a fortnight's time (on 16 February).

Philip is being very philosophical in the face of this unwelcome news from the PET scan, taking the view that he has to play the hand he's been dealt.

On the positive side, the pain management medication is working well provided Philip gets top-up doses soon after he requests them. He still has limited appetite, but has gained one kilo, so he's now the right side of 60kg again.

Philip and Maureen liken Philip's discharge date to a chimaera: just as it seems within grasp it moves further away. It is still possible that he will discharged tomorrow (Wednesday 3 February) but he will stay in hospital longer if urgent radiation treatment is necessary for his spine.

Stay tuned for updates on the main philipbulletin page.

Calls and visits are still welcome!