Lung Cancer spread to lymphatic system - Not treatable

Hi Rossy007,

Thank you for contacting Macmillan Cancer Support. My name is David, one of the Cancer Information Nurse Specialist’s on the  Macmillan Support Line.

I am sorry to hear of your lung cancer diagnosis and that it has spread to your lymphatic system. This is sometimes referred to as metastatic lung cancer or advanced cancer.

This must be an extremely worrying time for you and your family. It is only natural that you would want to know what time you have left.

The Consultant in charge of your care is best placed to answer any questions around Prognosis.

We have to remember though that a prognosis is not an exact science as many people will exceed their prognosis whilst some may fall short of it.

A prognosis also takes into account many factors. Such as, the stage and type of the cancer, does the person have any other underlying conditions, their general health and fitness or, how well they may respond to some treatments.

Whilst they have indicated that the cancer is not treatable, it may be worth asking if palliative treatment is an option to deal with any current symptoms.  

If a hospital gets to the point where treatment is no longer an option or the person withdraws from treatment, then the person is discharged from hospital care back to the community. The GP is then in charge of overall care from that point onwards.

Going forward, it may worth having a look at the Roy Castle Foundation and Asthma and Lung UK. Both are good sources of information and support.

If there is anything else, we can help you with please feel free to get back in touch.

Best wishes

David, Cancer Information Nurse Specialist

You can also speak with the Macmillan Support Line team of experts. Phone free on 0808 808 0000 (7 days a week, 8am-8pm) or send us an email.

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