My mother was diagnosed November 4 NSCLC (squamous) on November 4 and not certain which stage as of yet. Prior to being diagnosed she went to the emergency room feeling as though she was having a heart attack. Was later diagnosed, during this hospital stay; malignant pericardial effusion with concern for Lung Cancer. The biopsy later confirmed lung cancer. My mom keeps saying stage 3. But with research pleural or pericardial effusion puts you at stage 4. I am I correct about this? Currently she's in the hospital suffering C.Diff, the diarrhea has cleared but a fever keeps spiking/ randomly appearing. I've been worried for weeks that she leaving. Her appetite is poor, she's weak and can't walk. She was completely independent prior to the pericardial effusion.. We haven't seen the oncologist because she's been in and out of the hospital. Her pre-discharge notes says to mention SPEP to her oncologist, what is this? All of this is making me worry and feel confused.
Hi slipstitches, I’m so sorry to hear of your moms diagnoses and hospital stay. It is a very worrying time for you, and the waiting to see the oncologist to get the answers you need must be very hard. I believe the staging in your Moms cancer can only really be done by the oncologist, and I’m not really sure what SPEP is. You can ask this question in the Ask a Nurse where someone will be able to help you more. Hope this helps.
SPEP is actually used to test a multiple of conditions, by looking at the proteins in the blood. It’s best not to speculate as we do not know why the medical team have asked for this test. Is there anyone in your Moms team you could speak too about your concerns.
Hopefully you will get the answers on the 7th. I know you are caring for your mom, but remember to take care of yourself too during this stressful time. You might want to look at the Family and friends - Discussion Forum where there are other people in a similar situation to yourself. Let us know how your mom gets on.
Take care
