MRI scan 3 months after end of treatment

Hello G008

I think it was a later scan that showed some thickening where the tumour had been.  I had a sigmoidoscopy which showed proctitis and the thickening was scar tissue.

I very much hope that it is the same for you, I am so pleased that you are feeling so well.

Please let us know how you get on.

Irene xx

Thanks Irene, I really hope that’s the case x

My wife’s first scan showed excellent response to the (large) tumour in that it didn’t exist anymore but they noted two lymph nodes were enlarged. A follow up ultrasound+biopsy was booked and took place about 6 weeks later - that was last week. They decided not to do the biopsy on the day because one lymph node was no longer detected and the other had shrunk substantially. So nothing to do but put the date of the 2nd mri in the diary :)

yes, scar tissue or residual inflammation might simply be the reason. All the best.

Ok many thanks , it’s all so worrying isn’t it - all the best to you guys too x

Hi G008 

I was told at 3 month scans I was clear and then they changed their minds as the PET scan showed uptake but then at 6 months it was clear turned out in my case it was healthy tissue damaged during treatment healing itself. Keeping everything crossed for you. Xx

Thank you , the consultant did a really thorough DRE examination again after 3 month MRI scan and said he just can’t feel anything . He said the lymph node had completely disappeared but this tiny abnormality in the anal canal prevents him from saying cured and they have to explore it through biopsy to be certain what it is . He seemed very confused and said we ‘whalloped’ you with chemoradiation. I have read a lot of messages in here where people haven’t had clarity at three months so I’m just praying this is the case. I would love to hear more examples for reassurance ! Thanks so much for replying xx

Hi G008 ,

Firstly congratulations on completing your treatment & it’s really reassuring that your consultant couldn’t detect anything during your physical examination. It’s also great to hear that you’re feeling so well in your recovery.

Quite a few people that have come through the forum in my time here have had similar news to your own at the stage you’re at in your recovery that has led to further investigations, either examinations under anaesthetic (EUA’s) or biopsies & most have come back as simply scar tissue so hopefully this will be the case for you too. It’s easy to say I know but try not to worry too much as the 3 month scan often doesn’t give a ‘complete response’ it’s generally the 6 month scan that’s classed as the most important as the radiotherapy still does it’s thing for quite some time after that last session & can leave behind a heap of inflammation & tissue damage. 

Got everything crossed that you receive good news following your biopsy. 

Nicola 

Oh thank you so much for your message, I really appreciate it . I felt so great about everything and then the appointment on Friday was so scary as like you guys the treatment has been brutal and I just feel I’ve got my life back , though still v tired . I will stay positive and post as soon as I know , many thanks x

I have just come out of biopsy and the surgeon said I don’t need to have anything sent away - it is totally clear ! I am sat crying in my hospital gown !! I expected to wait three weeks for results - I can’t believe it ! Thank you so much for replying straight away when I was at such a low ebb! Can’t open the champagne as on antibiotics for 5 days but who cares!!!

Hi G008,

What fantastic news and such a massive relief for you.  Really happy for you hoping you can celebrate soon. 

Congratulatory hug to you xx