My husband, Joe was diagnosed with SCC of the left buccal mucosa (cheek) on 06/01/06. It was T2-N0-M0 after clinical eval, but the PET showed some uptake in the lymph node, so T2-N1-M0. He had surgery on 6/15 to remove the tumor, but no nodes, since he'd have radation. He started concurrent IMRT radiation (33) and chemo (cisplatin - 3x) mid August, completing treatment on 9/30. He's seen the surgeon/ENT monthly since and one FU visit with MO on Nov 1. The radiated area has been slow to heal and the doc has taken 2 biopsys that came back neg.

Late in January, Joe strained his back lifting weights, and had a persistent pain under his right shoulder blade. He went to the massage therapist first, then chiropractor. After the chiro couldn't figure it out, he ordered an MRI. In the interim, he got in contact with oncology, who ordered a bone scan. That showed 2 areas of metabolism on the right 4 rib. that prompted further xrays and the scheduling of a PET scan. The MRI showed a bump on or by the rib. The tech said it looked like a cyst in passing, but qualified the statment with the "i'm no doctor." PET was last week, and here we are today, waiting for the results. The nurse at onc left a babbling message on our v-mail saying that she got the results and had an opening today to see the doc. Of course, no one ever wants you to come in to give you great news. We are on pins and needles, hoping and praying for the best, but can't help but think of the worse.

Also, 3/16 was FU with ENT. There was a node on the back of his neck that was swollen (left side), so he did a needle biopsy of that.

Joe was doing so well, now all of this hits us like a ton of bricks. I have been one of those forum members who lurk in the background until now. Today, I'm hoping to get some positive ju-ju from you all before we go in for that appointment!