The issue with PET/CT is one of resolution. It CAN detect greater than millimeter sized tumors but cannot detect less than millimeter sized tumors. So, the idea that your PET/CT is clear means that you have no detectable cancer by that technique. You may still have small cancers remaining that cannot be seen on the PET/CT scans.
- mommyNY
- NY
- Member Since Oct 2011
Their Diagnoses (1)
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- Patient: Hodgkin Disease
- Patient Info: Currently in active treatment (initial surgery, receiving chemo rounds/radiation), Diagnosed: over 9 years ago, Female, Age: 44
- View this journey (1 Experience)
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mommyNY started following
almost 9 years ago -
mommyNY started following
almost 9 years ago -
mommyNY asked a questionHodgkin Disease
Hodgkins Lymphoma-did 8 chemotherapy treatments and now my oncologist recommending radiation, i refused radiation and doctor then suggested another 4 treatments of chemotherapy, if PET scan is clear and cancer is gone why do more? what's your experience?
9 answers-
threecs
The same thing happened to me. My scans were clear after 4 treatments and it was real hard for me to understand why I would need to continue. They have studied this for years and the best results are the combo. I did it because I hope I would never have to do it again. Radiation was not anywhere close to being as bad as chemo. It's quick and easy and worth it if it means no more chemo.
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GregRx
Like saltermd said according to current guidelines this is standard of care.
My PET scan was also clean after my Stanford V regimen when I had completed my 12 weeks of chemo.
They went ahead with the 30+ radiation daily treatments afterwards as the long term remission rates are better with this therapy.
Still remission free after 14 years.
It is your choice though! I tolerated chemotherapy WAY better than radiation re: side effects.
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mommyNY started following
over 9 years ago