2nd post chemo scan??

[DAWN82]

Ok, Brian got a letter in the mail from Bosl's office yesterday and it stated that his has to have a 2nd ct-scan next friday right before his Petscan?
only this time, they are not going to use oral OR! IV contrast! this doesnt make any sense to me.

NOW i am so scared! what if something is wrong? anyone have any clue what is going on? his last ct-scan was on july 26th

Dawn

[Fed]

This sounds pretty standard. Usually CT scans are done both with oral and IV contrast. The oral contrast highlights mainly the GI tract, while the IV contrast enhances vascular and lymphatic structures. My guess is that they are aiming to overlay the CT with the PET to make a PET-CT composite. The CT will pinpoint the location of structures and masses, and the PET will "color" the ones that are very metabolically active. It all sounds like standard-operating-procedure, so the letter shouldn't be cause for alarm.

[TCLEFT]

Dawn,
I have to admit I don't recall the reason why, but I did have CT scans both with and without contrast. Don't get too worked up, easier said than done, I know. I don't think this CT comparison is unusual.

[Karen]

Dawn,
I agree with Fed's take on this...makes perfect sense that contrast would not be needed to overlay with a PET.
I still think you need a sit-down (not the NJ type ) with Dr Bosl and a list of your questions or concerns.

[DAWN82]

Dawn,
I agree with Fed's take on this...makes perfect sense that contrast would not be needed to overlay with a PET.
I still think you need a sit-down (not the NJ type ) with Dr Bosl and a list of your questions or concerns.

SO YOU DONT THINK I SHOULD WORRY EITHER?
JUST ROUTINE TEST ALONG WITH THE PET SCAN?

[Karen]

Dawn,
I just sent you a PM.

[dannysbrother]

Fed or anyone else,

correct me if i'm wrong, but I believe the contrast dye is not exactly easy on the kidneys or liver. perhaps they are excluding the contrast this time around to give his body a break.

I don't think you should be worried about this letter. Doing these scans will give Bosl and better indication of what is going on with Brain. It's a thorough set of scans that will provide a lot of information and tell Bosl and other docs what the next step should be.

Hang in,
Michael

[Already Bald]

Hi Dawn,
Did Brian have his scan today?
Have you heard from the liver surgeon?
Just so you know, I've had several CT Scans wothout contrast- I wish they were all without contrast.
It is not unusual at all.

Let us know how You are doing too.
Joe

[DAWN82]

Hi Dawn,
Did Brian have his scan today?
Have you heard from the liver surgeon?
Just so you know, I've had several CT Scans wothout contrast- I wish they were all without contrast.
It is not unusual at all.

Let us know how You are doing too.
Joe

Hello Joe,

Brian only went for a marker test yesterday. he goes for the 2nd ct-scan and the pet scan on 8-10. i just dont understand why they have to have a 2nd one when JUST did one on 7-26. i am praying with all my heart that his #'s are ok and didnt go up. we should get the results today (hopefully!)

will keep you all informed
happy friday everyone!
Dawn

[DAWN82]

Hi Dawn,
Did Brian have his scan today?
Have you heard from the liver surgeon?
Just so you know, I've had several CT Scans wothout contrast- I wish they were all without contrast.
It is not unusual at all.

Let us know how You are doing too.
Joe

Ps...... As far as i know, they did not speak with the liver surgeon as of yet.
and as far as i am going? well, i had to go to the Dr the other day because i am just having a really hard time with everything. i am going to also see a counsler.

[roydeste]

Dawn,
I'll pray all goes well.

Love
Rosy

[Margaret]

Ps...... As far as i know, they did not speak with the liver surgeon as of yet.
and as far as i am going? well, i had to go to the Dr the other day because i am just having a really hard time with everything. i am going to also see a counsler.

Dawn,

I am really glad you are seeking some emotional support. This is a difficult time for you and reaching out for help is a great thing. I am proud of you.

Margaret

[DAWN82]

Ok, so.........

Just wanted to let everyone know that i overreacted about the 2nd ct-scan -I spoke to Dr. Bosl's assistant and she explained that they do it together automatically.

thursday is the Pet-scan and i am FREAKING out!

[Fed]

Dawn,
There's no point in stressing out right now. Brian is in great hands at MSKCC and by having you by his side. Since all you can do right now is wait, you should try to find some distractions for the next couple of days. Although it's meant to be wicked hot and humid today, you should go out on the town, have some ice cream or Italian ice, hang out in Central Park... get the cancer out of your mind for the time being. I understand the stress, and waiting is definitely a nuisance. You guys will deal with the PET-CT when the time comes on Thursday. Hang tough, girl!