I was recently diagnosed with ovarian cancer. I'm a full time wheelchair user with other health issues. It turns out that I'm not a fit candidate for chemo or an operation. I've been taking Letrozole hormone treatment which has stopped the ascites. Does this mean the cancer has gone completely or is it just controlled by the drug? Is their any other treatment I can have without having chemo, such as targeted therapy?
Please advise
Many thanks
Debbie.
Dear Debs1970 ,
Thanks for getting in touch and welcome to the online community, I hope you find it supportive. My name is Gillian and I’m one of the Cancer Information Nurse Specialists on the Macmillan Support Line.
I am sorry to hear of your ovarian cancer diagnosis and the challenges you are facing. I am pleased to hear you are experiencing positive results from taking the Letrozole. Letrozole, a type of hormone therapy, works by blocking the enzyme aromatase, which the body uses to make oestrogen. This can help stop the growth of cancer cells that need oestrogen to grow. While Letrozole can be effective in controlling the cancer and stopping symptoms like ascites, it doesn't necessarily mean the cancer is completely gone. It is more likely that the drug is controlling the cancer's growth.
Regarding other treatment options, targeted therapy might be a viable alternative for you, it is important to discuss with your oncology team whether these treatments are suitable for your individual situation. It can be helpful to start thinking about questions to take to your next hospital appointment or alternatively, if you have a specialist nurse involved in your care you can make contact to discuss your concerns as they have full access to your medical records.
Often talking to others going through a similar experience can be helpful too. There is further information and support available through our Online Community, especially the Ovarian cancer forum also Target Ovarian cancer has a wide range of support.
I hope this information is helpful, sometimes a two-way conversation can be beneficial, please do not hesitate to call, you may find talking to one of our nurses will allow you to ask more detailed questions about your situation.
kind regards
Gillian, 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 email us.
RefGMcR/GG
