Diagnosis in

Mum and I attended a consult with her oncologist today, Dr Foote. We thought it was going to be routine but the doctor started by telling us a diagnosis was in. It was Myeloma as was initially thought. Apparently Mum must have a non-secreting version that does not exhibit all of the normal signs so that is why the diagnosis was not clear before the biopsy. To remind yourself of the particulars of this disease, have a read of this link.

This was really good news. Apart from having a diagnosis so we can move forward, it was the diagnosis we were ultimately hoping for. Melanoma was largely untreatable and it was the front runner so to be diagnosed with the more treatable Myeloma was a really good thing. Apparently for this cancer there are far more effective drugs available. This will be in the form of chemotherapy.

Mum also has a small nodule on the lungs that is going to be monitored. It is in an awkward spot in the middle of the lung so a biopsy would be risky and also not recommended so soon after her back surgery. Therefore the size if it will be monitored through the chemo treatment and dealt with if it grows or is still suspicious down the track. It not necessarily something bad.

Mum is now being referred back to the Hematology department which is the speciality that Myeloma falls under (as it is a cancer of the blood). Dr Foote is organising this referral and Hematology will be in touch. He also said that if for some reason Hematology cannot start chemo straight away, he would recommend radiotherapy in the meantime. If chemo starts quickly, radiotherapy would not be necessary.

Other information from the consult:

Mum asked about her pain levels and if they were normal. The doctor reassured her that pain and discomfort are normal and expected after surgery this big. This was good for Mum to hear as it let her know that her pain is not a sign of something wrong, just expected during her recovery. This will make it easier to just accept the bad days knowing it is going to get better.

Also, Mum asked if she should be worried about her swollen legs but again, he said it was normal. There is a level of blood loss during the surgery that results in blood getting into other areas of the body that will dissipate over time. Again, this made Mum feel better.

So, where to from here? Consult with hematology, likely chemotherapy and keeping an eye on the lung nodule. Also, Mum will be getting a post-operative surgical consult to check on her progress. This will be when her surgeon returns from being on leave.

All in all, a good day for Mum.