I had a routine PET/CT scan today and it was not great. Started with the scan and then went to see the MO. He said he was seeing some areas light up but he did not feel it was a recurrence. We looked at the scan together and he showed me what was going on.

I have had an ulcer that has been very slowly healing along the tonsilar pillar. It is almost gone except for a pocket that has formed about 1/8 in. in diameter in width and depth. He showed me where that area was lighting up and then worked though a few slices of scan to show how that was connected to the nearest lymph node (brighter on the scan) which is the one that was treated for cancer. The lymph node also was lit up. The MO felt it was a situation where the ulcer was inflamed and infected and that had worked its way to the lymph node. He said that the head of the team, the ENT/Surgeon, wanted to see me also.


The ENT was not so sure about this being infection and seemed genuinely concerned that this was a return of the cancer (although he did not say this outright). He did a fine needle biopsy right there to see what the lab would find. He was non-committal on the diagnosis and said he had no gut feeling about this one way or the other and he was just as anxious to see the results as I am. He put a rush on the biopsy order and we hope to get the results in 24-48 hours. So here we go with the waiting game.

Very strange situation for me as I am praying for an infection.

Kelly, I just want to let you know that I am thinking of you and hoping and praying that this is indeed just an infection.
Tammy

I hope for the best. Glad your doctors are on top of this, and did a FNAB to be sure. Although, waiting is the worst. Hang in there.

Waiting sometimes is the hardest part. Prayers for an infection.

Me too--- I have my fingers crossed you have an infection. I would say based on your history, it's a good chance it is. They cooked that area nicely so necrotic tissue is very possible, and healing etc.. is compromised, and frankly you had a similar occurrence recently where you had a non healing necrotic ulcer. Thankfully the first dr. showed you why and what he suspected. Hopefully the FNA gives you some good news - infections suck but the C word sucks more. If it was my vet you know - the results would have been back in an hour!! Full biopsy 24-48... bizarre but true! hugs dude.

Kelly

Man, that sucks. I am dreading my MRI and Petscan in mid April . You and I are in uncharted territory as far as radiation TX goes. They have no benchmark to compare us to. with everyone else getting half the doses we had.
The radiologist who did my last MRI told me that there was so much damage she really could not tell what was what anymore.
As I mentioned, she thought the cancer was back, but after the RO and tumor board went over it with her, said it was edema and swelling. and I do not even have as much radiation as you did.
The needle biopsy should be more accurate for you.
I'm praying for an infection also. That ulcer sounds painful.
I'm still on a baby fentanyl (12 mcg) patch due to constant pain. I had to cut down the nebulizer when I started coughing up really bloody sputum. Back to just ropey choking kind and back on baby steroids (predisone)

No matter how tough we are, we can not help but worry in situations like this. Hang in there. We are all rooting for you brother.
Charm

So sorry that you have to go through this anxiety again. Wierd how it just never gets any easier. Sending my prayers and good thoughts that you get an all clear.

Hugs
Donna

Geez, Kelly, I am sorry to be reading this. The scans are scary enough. I hope and pray it is an infection. Sending you all the best in hugs, prayers and positive vibes.

Anita

My prayers are with you Kelly for good results. Who ever imagined we'd be praying to have an infection. Geez, will it never end. Anyway, prayers headed your way from the biggest wimp on the Forum.

julieann

Hi Kelly,
So sorry to read this. Can't imagine how reeling this is right now! Will be praying for good news.
Kathy