Metastasis in the neck bones

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My husband is back in hospital. An infection that has turned into sepsis is what caused hospital admission.He has had head chest and abdomen scans. The head scan shows prostate cancer metastasis in his neck at the base of his spine. Oncology say they do not consider it necessary to take any new actions.

My husband is very confused, has muscle weakness in his arms and legs  to the extent that he has difficulty holding and drinking from a cup, struggles, due to temblor in his hands to use a knife and fork and his mobile phone. Hospital staff haven’t located the source of infection but are guessing the catheter is the culprit. After 24 hours in hospital and at my insistence they changed his catheter this evening and sent samples from the old one off for analysis. 


I hope the cause of his very poorly condition is due to infection and not linked to the cancer which is everywhere except for his vital organs…thank goodness. 
Does anyone have experience of cancer metastasis in the base of the neck joining the skull and what can be done about it. Sometimes it be best to do nothing. I would be grateful to of the experiences of any of you. Thank you. I am feeling distraught and just want my husband home again.

  • The cancer is second fiddle to the sepsis. This is a horrible problem and the hospital will get your hubby back soon.

    I have some spinal Mets which have not been directly attacked by any treatment but depending on how close the base of the neck the radiotherapy can go. I would imagine radiotherapy would be possible but I’m not an expert.

    The wasting away of arms and legs is more of a problem  and exercise I guess is essential. Getting physio will be on the cards I’m sure but you will be a party to the meetings that decide how to proceed.

    I cant help, only give you my thoughts of where I’m going in time. This debilitating situation is beyond me but you will need support as well as advice. I have a strong shoulder if you need more support.

    Good luck the both of you

  • Thank you. You are an amazing person. My husband has deteriorated so fast. It has only been a couple of days since the infection was diagnosed and today I was told he is reaching end of life stage. We may have a few days to a couple of weeks. The prostate cancer has spread to his entire body and affecting his liver function. Devastated isn’t a strong enough word for how I am feeling right now.

  • You may feel alone but you’re not.

    The time of support and advice is nearing its end for your hubby but we stand by you shoulder in everything you do.

    Its not over till it’s over and he’s fighting with the little strength he has, he would rather spend more time with you so keep your hope.

    Good luck

  • Good morning  

    hope your husband is a bit better and able to return home . 

    I also hope you’re doing ok . Remember we are all here for you if you need a chat

    sending hugs

    liz & OH xx

  • Sending lots of hugs and good wishes to you and your husband must be do hard...xxx

  • Thank you. We both want him to come home and be peaceful with each other and our golden retriever dog. She is 11 years old and beginning to slow down. Just being home for even a day will be a great privilege and joy. 

  • My heartfelt sympathy. Going home is a very big and brave decision for both of you. Be sure that you have agreement in writing that there will be home visits for pain relief and general care. 

    What we were promised when my wife discharged to home bore no resemblance to what happened. Even the hospital bed for downstairs couldn't be got into the house. Although I was reasonably fit at the time a few weeks was draining, physically and mentally.

    My kindest thoughts to you both.

    Best wishes, Dave 

  • How’s it going  ?

    I hope your silence means things are going to plan and you’re busy with lovely mundane Easter things. But just in case things are hard I’m sending you my love.

    Good luck