I originally posted in the recurrence section but this may actually end up being a new cancer diagnosis. I had a lung pleura biopsy and fluid drain last Friday. Had been having some weird chest symptoms for about 6 weeks. Went to the doc 3 times or so and finally got an X-ray which led to a CT which lead to a biopsy due to fluid buildup in the right lung and pleural thickening.

Got the call today from my GP. It is indeed cancer. However she is saying it does not look like my original SCC but non small cell lung cancer. I asked her several times if it was SCC and she said no. I did since find out that squamous cell carcinoma is a type of non small cell. So I am not for sure on that yet. It has been just shy of 4 years since my original diagnosis.

Have an appt with the oncologist Friday. I am sure there will be much testing and planning to do.

I am of course beyond terrified.

I am so sorry to hear that. I do so wish you loads of treatment opportunities and options, good ones, when you next have an appt! I wish I knew of something magical to say to ease your fear. I'll be thinking of you!

My best wishes to your husband as well. I am definitely a fighter and it sounds like he is as well.

Good luck for the appointment on Friday. Once you know your enemy and have a plan in place you might feel a bit better.

Best wishes
Maureen

Hi there... if they are saying it's non small cell lung cancer then that's a good thing - so to speak. It is treatable with surgery and chemo that SCC doesn't respond to.

My friend's husband had tonsil cancer and ended up with lung right after he finished treatment - they were happy it wasn't mets from OC - he had it surgically removed and is doing great going on 6 or 7 years. I am unsure as to whether it was small cell or non small cell lung cancer he had but both I believe respond to chemo. small cell can be harder to treat and generally recurs - it's also usually a smoker's cancer, this is why I am leaning towards his having been non small cell as well.

While it's not good news by any means, it sounds like it's the best of bad news? I know that's no help and doesn't ease the fear or anxiety. But maybe it helps a little. Hugs and blessings to you.