My husband Doug is about 3 weeks status post radiation for stage IV SCC of tongue with bilateral neck metastasis. He has a follow up appt with the otolaryngologist on July 1st. He has done remarkably well during treatment. I am concerned however because the burns from the radiation to the face have disappeared, his neck on the left especially and below the chin are extremely hard. I know that further treatment is needed to assess effectiveness of twice daily radiation and chemo, but I am concerned. Is this a frequent occurence? How can you tell if it is lymphadema or tissue changes versus cancer remaining? Any info would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks to all.
Sincerely,
Virginia
Caregiver to husband Doug SCC base of tongue T4N2cM0