Reoccurance?
Hi All. My Uncle was diagnosed with Non small cell lung cancer 3.5 years ago. It was caught early and from what we understand successfully removed. He has 6 monthly check ups and has been doing well. Sadly we lost my Aunt to Breast Cancer in May. Since then he has recently had a CT scan (although we don't know why because he is very private and is also on his own) followed by a consultation where they have said that they want him to go for a biopsy because they have spotted something on the bottom of the left lung. There was mention in the past of a shadow on his lung but this was put down to a previous bout of pneumonia.
What are the chances we are looking at a re-occurrence of cancer here? He went back smoking about 4-5 weeks after his surgery. He said that they said it was not connected to the cancer but because he is quite deaf and doesn't really grasp what he is being told, we are wondering if he has heard right - I mean, why else would they want to do a biopsy again?
Dear Tamz,
Thank you for your post. I am sorry to hear of your aunt’s passing, RIP. I can understand your concerns over your uncle. It is, unfortunately, a possibliltiy that the biopsy ordered may show that cancer has returned. At times, scans can show areas of abnormality that need to be viewed more clearly. A biopsy is often ordered so that these areas can be tested and give a definite insight into what this growth is. There are other medical conditions that may require a biopsy also but until this is complete it is uncertain what this anbormality is. It can be very stressfu waiting for tests and results. If you would like to call the Nurseline at any time, we would be more than happy to speak to you in more detail. Our number is 1800 200 700 and we are here Monday to Friiday from 0900-1700.
Best wishes,
Cancer Nurse.