Hi, I'm very worried and concerned that my dad's cancer may have returned. My dad was diagnosed with lung cancer 4 years ago. He had 20 rounds of radiotheraphy. All previous scans have came back fine. He recently had 2 CT scans. Today a nurse called him to say he now needs a PET scan, and for him not to worry as it may be due to scarring on his lungs.
Is this normal? I'm so stressed and worried. Would scarring not have shown up on previous scans?
Hello Annabella,
Thanks for contacting us. I’m Gail, one of the Cancer Information Nurse Specialists on the Macmillan Support Line.
Your concern about the further investigations planned for your dad is understandable. It is important for his medical team to follow up on any changes they find on regular follow up investigations and CT might not be giving them enough information. PET scan creates a 3D image and can identify if there is an area where cells look more active than normal. It can help decide whether an area of concern is cancer or not. Sometimes PET scans are combined with CT or MRI to produce more detailed images.
Waiting for results can be stressful for everyone concerned and the process can take several weeks. It’s important you find a way to manage your anxiety during that time. You may also find the Macmillan emotional support and family and friends forums useful.
You can ask your dad to give permission to his specialist nurse, to talk things through with you, as she will have access to his medical records and can explain why the decision to arrange a PET scan has been taken.
Best Wishes,
Gail
Clinical Information Nurse Specialist
Ref:GH/LZD
