Hello People,

My Father had a PET scan done yesterday... The report says that all parts of body are clear except his tongue ( 2/3 of his tongue is effected). As I mentioned above, the biggest problem he is facing is breathing difficulty and swelling on his face (staring from neck upto below the eye).

Researching this website, the came across term "lymphedema" for swelling and massage by a physical therapist is suggested by people. I have a few questions...kindly devote 5 min. of yours to answer.. your responses will help my father a lot.

1) PET scan says neck region clear but any idea why does my father still has a rock-hard neck? His neck muscles are very tight and cant move his neck..

2)Extreme swelling in the face repeatedly - Is this an indication or symptom of possible metastasis beyond neck region...If yes, how do we know abt it? someone in forum had talked abt MRI of spine, skull?

3)can anybody please throw them light on how is the massage given? ( we dont have very good facility in India for physical therapist)

Thanks a bunch in advance... Merry Christmas to everyone...

Krishna


Tongue Cancer T2N1M0 - Surgery done 03/03/06. 5600 units Radiation completed 05/19/06.Recur 10/06 skin metastasis nodules. Electon beam radiation completed. Immunotherpahy suggested.