TC WORRY

Hi mate

Sorry you've had to write in.

What was your HCG level at the last blood test? It seems sensible to measure it again in a few weeks as it may have been a blip or an error.

I'm no medic but it seems almost implausible that anybody can develop TC for a third time, especially after losing both little fellas! =

Like yourself, I've had two bouts of TC. Once aged 23 and once aged 43 (21 months ago). Both cases were pure seminoma and stage one.

My tumour markers have been fine since the second case. My understanding is that normal HCG level is under five. However my LDH marker has been erratic and often been abnormal but has always levelled out to a normal level. 

Keep us posted

Hiya Vinny,

Sorry to hear you've got the worry again. I was diagnosed with a TC at age 27 and again aged 31. Teratoma the first time around and to everyone's surprise a Seminoma the second time around. I've been told if you ever find yourself in the unlucky position to be diagnosed with TC again in the remaining ballick it's rare for it not to be the same type as the first occassion. I'm either very weird or very special!

On both occasions, especially the second, when I was advised I may have TC I spent hours googling information and anything which would stop me worrying. Your mind just goes into overdrive and you stop thinking about the 'here and now' and all you can think of is the future which isn't a healthy place to be mentally.

I hate the don't worry speech the oncologist gives us but for the 'right here right now' not worrying is one of the few things which will bring peace to our minds and allow us to settle. Talking, counselling, reading and even mindfulness are really good ways to help us cope. It's very easy for others to tell us to stop worrying as if it was that easy but we are all equiped with the ability to reduce our own anxiety.

Ali

Hi vin my snap I had stage 4 first time then 17 years later stage 1 then told everything clear then October should have seen specialist for scan and blood results instead received phoned call with results saying bloods bit wrong and nodule in my lung when I got the second bout they said I had nodule in the chest nothing about nodule in lung they said they will look at previous scan and compare phoned numerous times to find out what is going on no answers going back on 17th February 4months later to see what is happening it is so hard not to worry why don't u see if doctors will do a blood test to reassure you good luck ray

Thanks for the replies... my level off HCG was 3 so its still low but the consultant was very open and honest and said that is why we are here , so any sight of movement we are on it. If it is a recurrence then they have caught it very early.

Both my cases were Seminoma stage 1 as well and if bad luck strikes 3 times as its very early then its very treatable ...

I have my bloods next week so will keep updated...

to be honest .. its really good to speak out about it ;0)

Hi vinny. 

I know it is a long time from then. Was it a false alarm or o relapse? I m asking as I m in a similar situation. 

Hcg small increases can be dued to marijuana consumption, or low testosterone levels.

Thanks,

Geo