Decisions, Decisions
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Susan…Stable is fantastic. Given the severe side effects and the severely impacted quality of life, I would give Dr. Javel’s reasoning some serious thought. As far as I know Peritoneal metastases are not locally treated – chemotherapy may have some effect.
Hopefully other will chime in and share their thoughts with us as well.
Hugs,
MarionMy husband (Le) was dx January 2013. Started gem/cis May-13 (3 month) didn’t do anything. Javle put him on FOLFIRI+Tarceva July 2013 and significant shrinkage (from 2.5cm to 7.5mm) and at his appt Dec-13 & yesterday Javle says Le is stable. Javle doesn’t know which (or both together) is working but based on genetic testing Javle thinks it’s the Tarceva. So he said that he’s taking Le off FOLFIRI (if we choose). He also said he wasn’t expecting Le to respond to this treatment (so glad he was wrong!) and that it’s rare for someone to be on FOLFIRI long term (9+ months) – I am not quite understanding that, as my thoughts would be “it’s working, let’s keep going.” But quality of life with FOLFIRI is tough to handle because of the severe side effects. Radiation is not on the table for Le as he has mets to the peritoneal (not visible on yesterday’s MRI) – I don’t understand this either as I know several people that’s had radiation even though the cancer has spread outside of the liver.
At this point we are to choose quality of life and gamble that the Tarceva is the one that’s working or continue same treatment and my poor husband continues to endure the side effects. We also know at some point Le will develop resistance to FOLFIRI anyways.
I’m trying to gather as much info as possible to make the best educated decision possible and any experience/knowledge that anyone can pass along, we’d greatly appreciate it.
Thanks so much!
Susan
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