Too sick for biopsy?

[Njhd23]

Whilst hospitalised for an exacerbation, a routine x-ray showed a shadow. The cat scan then ordered confirmed a 38mm mass at the bottom of my left lung. Apparently I am too ill for the needle biopsy needed to decide upon appropriate treatment (ie what sort of cancer is it) but as I would also be too ill for any of the treatments, the consultant doesn't appear worried. I, however, am worried. Has anyone else been through anything similar? I have lung function below 18%, I am on 2 litres of oxygen at rest 24/7, and use a bipap when sleeping. I retain co2 so my target spo2 is now 84 to 88%.

[cofdrop-UK]

It’s a no from me Njhd23. No wonder you are worried. I hope this can be resolved for you.

Cx

[Njhd23 in reply to cofdrop-UK]

Thanks for your kind thoughts.

[2greys]

Sort of, I could not have a needle biopsy because of the tumours position, it was deemed to cause too much damage. It was diagnosed via radiography.

I failed the fitness for surgery, chemo was also ruled out, so elected radiotherapy.

[Njhd23 in reply to 2greys]

The team felt that radiotherapy may cause too much damage to what functioning lung I have left. Meanwhile thanks for your support.

[skischool]

Has the consultant advised why a fine needle biopsy is not suitable,is it because of the position of the mass as to my knowledge only a local anesthetic is required so your very low fev rate and potentially low dclo would not normally preclude you from appears to be a relatively safe intervention and as per 2 greys has radiotherapy been considered for treatment should the mass be considered malignant.sorry for so many questions but non treatment doesn't seem like a reasonable alternative to me.

Hoping that this can be resolved soonest,

[Njhd23 in reply to skischool]

Cat scan directed needle biopsy has too high a risk of pneumothorax and radiotherapy damages lung tissue. These were team decisions not just the opinion of one doctor. Meanwhile thanks for the support.

[skischool in reply to Njhd23]

I am sorry to hear that but one has to presume that the team have your best interests at heart and have considered all risks,hopefully other solutions can be found,

[Njhd23 in reply to skischool]

They are working on it. Meanwhile I hope things go well for you on Friday. Take care of yourself.

[skischool in reply to Njhd23]

Thank you you are very kind to think of me given your present circumstances

[stamford1234 in reply to skischool]

There is advice to be had here and often it is good. Sometimes people are in a position to advise. Often well. I will put my oar in. My father had a biopsy, he had mesothelioma, it was the death of him. They screwed it up. It wasn't done correctly. Months in hospital and months at home, depressed even suicidal, oxygen the works then death

[stamford1234 in reply to stamford1234]

Things have changed over the years. Medical science is on our side.

[stamford1234]

Take skischool's advice.regarding your biopsy. And have it. On the face of it a biopsy is an investigation tool and has to be done. You will be well looked after. All the very best Njhd. Fingers crossed all will be well and you will receive the best treatment. Look forward to hearing about the outcome

[skischool in reply to stamford1234]

Please Stamford.the MDT people are the best to give advice not simple Ski's but i know you have the right intentions to guide our friend.

[stamford1234 in reply to skischool]

I have no information to share except but to exchange my experience and feelings on a COPD basis. Please what is or who are MDT

[skischool in reply to stamford1234]

It is a multi disciplinary team made up of all the consultants such as radiographer,surgeons,respiratory consultant etc,etc who give an overall picture on patients care and treatment plans.

[stamford1234 in reply to skischool]

MDT , well that is heartening for me that a multi disciplinary team actually exists in the world of fresh air. With the best will in the world you are living in the one where fresh air is free. While I drag myself to bed this evening shall I call out for my MDT. Get real

[skischool in reply to stamford1234]

Not quite sure where you are at,i gave you a factual answer,sorry you didn't like it

[stamford1234 in reply to skischool]

Thanks but you have stirred something up in me again. You have an authority about you

[skischool in reply to stamford1234]

sorry didn't mean to but just wanted to explain the initials that designate them,

[stamford1234 in reply to skischool]

Sometimes, you are scary. But you have stuff to share x

[Hacienda in reply to skischool]

Carino, You always give your Heartfelt reassurance to Everyone on here, That is why we are ALL here to Contribute our sincere Knowledge and Warmth to Each Other. I forgot those Intials: MDT, and have written them Down. It was The MDT that had their Monthly meeting in July to assess my Pending Procedure, My Lovely Consultant attended and Contributed my Positive Way of Life, though with only 19% Lung capacity, the Procedure did not Happen. At Least they tried. So Again, My Dear Forum Lung Buddy, I thank you for always being here for everyone. Lots of Love to You & Scruffy. Besitos, xxxxx

[Caspiana in reply to stamford1234]

Hello.

I doubt very much Skis is advising Njhd23 to do the biopsy, he is simply asking for the reasons for being advised against it. It would be a fallacy, considering we are not medical professionals and at this moment it is not even a choice to be considered.

I was also told at the beginning of my illness that a biopsy would be unwise due to the high risk of a pneumothorax happening in already very weakened lungs. I did however get three specialist opinions on the matter, and I think if you are able to, Njhd, then try to get another opinion. It never hurts to find out what another professional thinks.

Not the best situation to be in and I am very sorry you find yourself in this position Njhd23. I hope very much that you are comfortable in the mean time.

Very best wishes to you,

Cas xx 🍀

[Njhd23 in reply to Caspiana]

Thanks for the advice and for your kind thoughts. I hope you are also comfortable.

[Njhd23]

I am not going to be offered a biopsy. I asked and was refused. They are thinking of a pet scan although that will need a long journey to another hospital. Meanwhile thank you for your good wishes and kind thoughts.

[2greys in reply to Njhd23]

PET Scan was exactly how mine was diagnosed.

[Njhd23 in reply to 2greys]

Maybe I should push for that. Perhaps the journey will be worth it.

[Njhd23 in reply to 2greys]

Meanwhile thanks again for your replies. It really helps to hear from someone walking a similar path.

[Caspiana in reply to Njhd23]

Good. I think the PET scan would be far safer. xx 👋

[snail]

I have severe emphysema and was diagnosed with lung cancer and secondary liver cancer by CT scan. Consultant said too ill for biopsy and l wouldn't cope with chemotherapy. Offered radiotherapy for pain if needed.

[stamford1234 in reply to snail]

Well, what to do my love except write a beautiful poem. Thinking of you snail .. all through the night x You are not alone x

[Njhd23 in reply to snail]

Thank you for your reply. It does help to hear from someone walking a similar path. I hope you are currently pain free.

[Caspiana in reply to snail]

Hello snail ,

I am terribly sorry to read this. Honestly, it's really hard to know what to say as I know words in these circumstances can be hollow at the best of times. I am however wondering how you are coping with support? My hope is that you have comfort and people you can talk to. Please do let us know how you are doing, if you are up to it.

Thinking of you,

Cas xx 🌹

[Izb1 in reply to snail]

Oh my word Snail, when did this happen? I am so sorry to hear this news. Is there anything other treatment they can offer to you. Thinking of you x

[Jacmidlands]

I cannot help you at all or give you any advice but just want to send you my very best wishes.

[Njhd23 in reply to Jacmidlands]

Thank you for your kindness.

[Damon1864 Volunteer]

Sending you love and best wishes, take care of yourself 😊 Bernadette xx

[Njhd23 in reply to Damon1864]

Thank you ☺

[Bingo88]

Thoughts are with you at this worrying time for you Njhd23. Sorry i cant offer any advice. Only to say i am sure they are all doing whats best for you. Brian

[Njhd23 in reply to Bingo88]

Thank you

[Hacienda]

Thoughts are with you from myself ,and everyone on this Forum. Love n Hugs. Carolina. XXXX

[Njhd23 in reply to Hacienda]

Thank you

[Izb1]

What a worrying time for you Njhd23 and such alot to think about. Sounds like the pet scan could be the way forward. I wish you all the best, will be thinking of you x

[Njhd23 in reply to Izb1]

Thank you

[watergazer]

I can't offer any advice however reading the posts the PET scan seems to be the way to go. Sending you hugs and best wishes Njhd23 Anita x

[Njhd23 in reply to watergazer]

Thank you

[Dedalus]

Sorry to hear this. Hope they can work out something soon.

[katieoxo60]

Sorry to here your news , not good. I hope they can find you some help, maybe a lung transplant. Its not easy to accept a poor outcome but we often have to no choice. Take each day as it comes and maybe fate will turn the table for you. Try to enjoy each day as it comes every best wish for a change in the decision.

[Collie4]

You have friends on here that care and understand. I hope you take comfort from it. Try stay strong, get more opinions from medical professionals. I hope things go well for you.

[peege]

I'm so sorry Njhd23 to hear your news. I too sincerely hope you have caring folks around you for love and support. My very best warm wishes to you. Thinking about you and Snail. Peege

[Ergendl]

You are both in my thoughts and prayers, Njhd23 and Snail.