Hi everyone, my husband was diagnosed with base of tongue tumor with Mets to 1 lymph node 2 weeks ago. The past 2 weeks have been a whirlwind of appointments and tests. Had CT and MRI, labs and dental consult done, scoped x3 by 3 doctors, MRI, fine needle biopsy confirmed squamous cell. PET scan scheduled in 2 days. Tumor on tongue is about 1.3cm with lingual tonsil involvement but not past midline. Doctors told hubby that they think they caught it early and most likely HPV, although have not gotten results from smear, will get them on monday.
Hubby had biopsy of tumor scheduled for this Thursday but his doctor called and told him the tumor board met and all agreed that he was a good surgical candidate and they scheduled surgery thi Thursday for TORS with excision of lymph node(s). He is 56yo with absolutely no other medical conditions. No meds, no heart disease but did smokefor 20years, quit 17yrs ago.
I’m really nervous. They are convinced that it’s HPV based on soft fluffy appearance, location, soft movable enlarged lymph node. I keep reading that radiation is usually best approach.
We meet with surgeon Monday to over MRI and smear for HPV results and risks of surgery so hope to get clear answers about reason she feels surgery is way to go and if thinks radiation will be necessary.
Being treated at Hopkins and his surgeon is supposed to be one of the best in field so should feel confident but so much to take in in such a short period of time.
Really no question but anyone with similar experience further along with feedback appreciated