He has a high, over 70, percentage chance that his SCC will test positive for HPV. His slides can be tested at several U.S. locations like John's Hopkins. While it may not affect his treatment, studies have shown that HPV+ SCC responds better to the treatment and (therefore) has a better chance that it won't come back. I also would question why they are choosing to deliver his chemo over 3 times vs the ever increasing popular 6 times as it seems to lessen the side effects of the chemo which I assume is going to be Cisplatin.

We all certainly know what you two are dealing with now and it will take a while to begin to adjust but know this...this cancer is very treatable. We will be here with you guys every step of the way.

David

Age 58 at Dx, HPV16+ SCC, Stage IV BOT+2 nodes, non smoker, casual drinker, exercise nut, Cisplatin x 3 & concurrent IMRT x 35,(70 Gy), no surgery, no Peg, Tx at Moffitt over Aug 06. Jun 07, back to riding my bike 100 miles a wk. Now doing 12 Spin classes and 60 outdoor miles per wk. Nov 13 completed Hilly Century ride for Cancer, 104 miles, 1st Place in my age group. Apr 2014 & 15, Spun for 9 straight hrs to raise $$ for YMCA's Livestrong Program. Certified Spin Instructor Jun 2014.