advice needed

[icoe]

Hi
my son has just had C.T scan results after 4 months chemo (BEP) he cancer had spread to lymphnodes ,liver and lung also had a spinal compression tumor and lost the use of his legs, The Good thing is that he does not need more treatment the results where better than the Doctor's could hope for. He still has tumors but they have reduced in size his liver and lungs are clear. Could be sent for a P E T scan , just need some advice his will be on monthly checkups for blood tests. What does a P E T scan show? His blood levels are all back to normal. legs are recovering slow but sure.

[danebert]

A radioactive isotope is combined with IV contract. A PET scan is basically a CT scan with some greater diagnostic capabilities. Cancer cells take up more contract than non cancer cells so cancer cells will light up on the scan. Other than the material injected it is similar to the same CT scans he has had in the past. One note of caution however. Neither a PET scan or blood markers will show Teratoma. One possible approach would be to have a biopsy of the tumor site or contact an expert to discuss all the possibilities. ie. surgery or continued surveillance. The normal markers are a great indicator that all active cancer is gone. ( Yolk sac embryonal carcinoma, ect.)

[IowaBrian]

I am sure he will have blood and xray every month and CT scan every 3 to 4 months. If all continues to show improvement then we all hope the worst is behind him and he can get on with a normal life.
Indiana University is a good place to start if you have any questions as to treatment options.
Hope this helps Good Luck
Brian

[icoe]

thanks

thanks for your replies, we hope everything goes to plan for full recovery, Kevin has youth on his side he is only just gone 18. He is determined to walk again. I am glad I found this Forum, it is alot easier to understand advice from people how are going through the same ordeals. Thanks again for all the support.