 Patient Advocate (old timer, 2000 posts)
Joined: Nov 2002 Posts: 3,552 | Adjunctive chemo can add an as much as 13% improved outcome by enhancing the radiation. It is toxic however and SOME experience various side effects from it from temporary to permanent. These effects can be managed by your team.
I personally have had more problems with side effects from the radiation than the chemo. Nothing that slows me down or stops me from enjoying life.
Typically adjunctive chemo is indicated mainly for stage 2 or higher, stage 2 being on the fence. Stage 3 or higher I wouldn't even consider not having it.
Gary Allsebrook
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Dx 11/22/02, SCC, 6 x 3 cm Polypoid tumor, rt tonsil, Stage III/IVA, T3N0M0 G1/2
Tx 1/28/03 - 3/19/03, Cisplatin ct x2, IMRT, bilateral, with boost, x35(69.96Gy)
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"You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes" (James 4:14 NIV)
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