I don't have much (any) expertise related to your specific case regarding the node on the left. But radiation damage can show up on a PET scan as suspicious. I had a 'false positive' on my PET scan which was 5 months post-treatment. It was worded something like, "moderate FDG accumulation in the area of the original tumor site, concerning for recurrence of the tumor". A biopsy was performed and found that the PET results were just picking up scarred tissues which were still healing. Again that was five full months after finishing treatment. My primary ENT doc told me that's why he waits for 4-6 months to do any PET scans, because the irritated and still healing tissues present the same way as cancer with the radioactive tracer used.

It can be difficult with the doctors and their sometimes seemingly 'rushed' state. So many times I go in with a list of questions, but then what he tells me goes down sort of a different path than what I expected, and my questions don't make as much sense. I end up getting home and thinking of 5 different ones that I wish I'd asked instead!! I'm sorry you're having to deal with this frustration. Just remember you're paying those guys good money - hold them hostage until you get your questions answsered if you can!!

I haven't had much luck with the products for dry mouth either - although I haven't tried Gelcare. The Biotene was very short-lived relief for me as well.

My hopes and prayers are with you in this difficult time of waiting.

-Steve J