post end of treatment ..

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Had my first post end of treatment appointment Monday..

Went well consultant had no concerns have to return in 4mths .

I asked if there was any CT,  MRI scans,  blood test to be done he said no..they won't pick anything up .. this confused me greatly! 

Is this normal ?? Thinking 

  • Hi Cariad

    Am glad it went ok.

    Scans are not routinely done unless there are any concerning symptoms. The same with blood tests. 

    I was assured that most recurrences present with symptoms- bleeding, pain, change in bowel habits etc. If they have examined you and checked you over, then you are ok. 

    I remember thinking that scans would be done but my consultant said the chemo and radiotherapy was to deal with an tiny cancer cells that may have escaped and that at that size they would not be visible on scans. 

    The questions they ask you are to pick up on any potentially concerning symptoms. The abdominal exam is to feel for any enlarged lymph nodes or any lumps/pain. The speculum exam is to look for visible changes in the vagina/vaginal vault- this is an area where recurrences may occur. The internal exam is to feel for any tethering, pain, lumps etc. 

    If anything was seen or felt or caused concerning symptoms then that is when a scan may be ordered. 

    If you notice any changes or have any worries before your next appointment, contact your CNS and they will move forward your appointment and check you over again. 

    Jane

           

    Macmillan Support Line - 0808 808 00 00, 7 days a week between 8am-8pm

  • Hi Jane

    i wonder whether scans are done for higher stages. I don’t have any concerning symptoms, but I had a CT scan on Friday ahead of my first post op review in a couple of weeks. I was stage 3A. I was told it was routine to have 3 months post end of treatment.  Or it could be different hospitals/different processes?