I didn't know whether to start a new thread but this is the background. I am looking at the reports. He thought he had an infected lymph node and (after 9 months) he went to a ENT Surgeon but I never knew about anything other than an infection. I only met the Dr in recovery room and he said they were sending it out for biopsy. The ENT Biopsy report says: 'Pre-OP and Post-Op DX: Left Neck Mass. Metastatic moderately differentiated scc involving lymph node with this comment....The lymph node is extensively replaced by non-keratinizing, moderately differentiated scc. Cells are diffusely and strongly positive for an immunohistochemical stain for p16. Consistant with HPV16.' I can't answer if they just removed the lymph node or dissection because I don't know. This ENT surgeon said that he would have to have RT, Chemo, and that he would probably lose his voice.

The MO did a PET Scan. The findings: 3.8 cm mass in the left carotid space has been resected, and proven to be a metastic jugulodigastric lymph node. Soft issue fullness in the surgical bed is non-FDG avid and presumably relates to post-surgical change. IMPRESSION: 1. Non-FDG soft tissue fullness in the left carotid space, most likely related to post-surgical change following excision of enlarged lymph node. 2. No localized FDG hyperactivity elsewhere within the neck, chest, abdomen, pelvis.

We met with the MO after the PET Scan and he told us that he thought radiation would be ok. He said there was no primary tumor and that meant that my husbands immune system did it's job and successfully fought off the initial cancer but it couldn't fight off the lymph node cancer. Bottom Line: My husband would survive this. He needed the RT and then every 6 to 8 weeks (for 2 years) they will do an endoscopy or some procedure to make certain that cancer has not reappeared.

No one ever mentioned feeding tube or PEG. The RO said it was not an option when I mentioned it in the hospital. I only know of feeding tube/PEG because of this forum.

The RO would not do a Thyroid test (I think the ER Dr declined to do that as well).

He has lost 7 pounds (weighs 172 now). Today is his 13th session. The RO hasn't changed anything about the Radiation (possibly will on Thursday)

If I should change my signature so that I am properly describing this then let me know.

I appreciate all the feedback and your help.

Stacey (Caregiver to Husband)
Lymph Node Removed 10/12
Dx SCC MET 10/12
No Primary Tumor Found
IMRT x 33 (Started RT late 11/12)
CT Scan and PET Scan Clear 4/13