2 primary cancers

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Hiya

I have just been diagnosed with cancer at the base of the tongue, stage 3 squamous carcinoma hpv, it was suggested that the aim was to start radio/chemo in January, however during a ct scan they came across an incidental find of a tumour in the tail of the pancreas. I am so scared as the results seem to be dragging on and now its looking like the beginning of January while everyone breaks for Christmas.

As far as I can tell they believe its a 4.5cm tumour on the pancreas tail, if that is the case then obviously my treatment plan for the tongue will change. I just feel really alone, all I really need to know at this point is if its curable? I just keep thinking am I going to die?

I feel scared, can anyone please give me some factual information? What are the chances of recovery from these cancers?

Many thanks

Michelle

Liz D - Macmillan over 2 years ago

Hi Michelle,

My name is Liz and I’m one of the Macmillan cancer information nurse specialists on the Macmillan Support Line.

Thank you for reaching out to us for support, I’m sorry to hear that you are feeling scared however I’m not surprised you are feeling like this at this time.

It’s OK not to feel OK at the moment. When someone is diagnosed with cancer it is common to experience a wide range of emotions, there is no right or wrong way to feel.

As Macmillan is not part of the NHS, we don’t have access to your medical notes. For this reason, your treatment team are better placed to answer specific questions about cure and prognosis.

Cancer at the base of the tongue is often treated with chemo-radiation but as you said the incidental finding of the tumour on the tail of your pancreas will now have to be considered.

Your case will have already been discussed in the head and neck cancer multi-disciplinary team (MDT) meeting and they would have recommended the treatment plan for you. However, it is likely that you will now be discussed in the upper gastrointestinal MDT so that they can recommend the treatment plan for the tumour in your pancreas. How they will plan your treatments is difficult to know at this time, but rest assured, Michelle that they will consider you as a whole person taking both treatment plans into account.

I can’t begin to imagine how you are feeling Michelle, but we are here from 8am to 8pm every day on 0808 808 0000. So, although you might not be able to contact your hospital team over the holidays, please contact us as often as you need us. You might find it useful to talk to us, in person on the phone or by web-chat.

Some people also find support through our online community.

Take care.

Liz

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. Ref LZD/DT

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2 primary cancers