Stable disease

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Hello, my husbands recent CT Scan after first cycle of chemo shows stable disease. He is due for an oesophagectomy on 24th August. My question is can anyone explain what stable disease means please. Thank you. 

  • Hello

    Sorry, I don’t know what it means but my guess would be that there has been no change, do clarify it with the nurse for your peace of mind though.  I hope he gets through the chemo ok and the op goes ahead as planned.  Tough times ahead but stay positive and the 24th will soon be here.  

    My husband had lymph nodes that were affected too, in fact they initially prevented surgery, the chemo worked really well and surgery became possible after 8 cycles.  Nobody gave him a chance (except himself!) so we’re thankful every day.

    Take care.

    J x

  • Hi Ella

    As Jayceeh5 has stated it generally means there is no change

    "Cancer that is neither decreasing nor increasing in extent or severity"

    Your Husband can ask for further information if that will help you both.

    Good Luck to him for the 24th, wishing for a successful surgery.

    Lowe'00

    Call the helpline for free on 08088080000, 8am to 8pm everyday.
    Tomorrow is not promised but it always has potential. Aim for your potential!
    • Hello thank you for responding. We thought that was the case but he has been able to have feeding tube removed and is eating well and putting on weight again. We thought it had definitely shrunk.just felt a bit disappointed. I'm happy to hear your husband has responded well. 
  • I think you can take great heart from your husband eating well and putting on weight, that in itself is really positive.  It’s early days after just one round of chemo so stay strong and keep going.  Is he able to do some exercise?  Whatever he can do to prepare himself for surgery will help his recovery.

    My husband was diagnosed in 2008 and had surgery in 2009 so it’s a few years ago now!

    J x

  • Hi, in October last year I was diagnosed with stage 2 to 3 oesophagus cancer. I had 4 cycles of chemotherapy starting on new years eve. When I had cat scan following this they said it was stable no change. On 29th of March this year I went in for oesophagectomy. I was in for 2 weeks.  The operation went really well. About 6 weeks after coming out I was given the all clear. All traces of the cancer had gone. Tomorrow its exactly 19 weeks since the operation. Last Monday I went back to work full time as a HGV1 driver. Things have advanced so much over the last few years and  the operation is getting more routine. Although it's still a very serious operation the procedure can achieve some fantastic results. I have nothing but praise for everyone involved. From the support teams to the surgical team.

    I know what you both are going through and how you are feeling. I had the same thoughts and worries with my wife. Just keep really positive and I wish you all the best. I hope this message gives you some comfort in knowing it is all worth it and it can really save your life. If you have any questions please ask. I'm not an expert but have experienced it and can maybe help.

    Cheers, Dave. 

  • Hi Dave, thank you for responding. Your story is very positive and does give us hope. It's good to hear you are back at work and doing well.