NSCLC again 18 months after radical radiotherapy. Oncologist says it appears to be the same cancer as before.

[M123456789]

Hi all

On behalf of my 81 yr old dad. Due to its location, he can’t have the new small tumour removed.

He previously had 6 weeks radical radiotherapy and responded well as the treatment frazzled the large localised cancerous tumour. Treatment finished in November 20 and he had subsequent 6 monthly CT scans .

His most recent CT shows a new small tumour above old one; clearly the reason for his ongoing inability to move his right arm and has no strength in his hand which is very swollen . He Also has shoulder pain. All on same side of new and previous tumour.

Anyway he had his CT feedback from oncologist consultation last Tuesday which gave the above outcome. He was advised he can’t have radiotherapy again (understandably) and has been referred onwards for a consultation/appointment to consider if he can have further treatment for the new small tumour ( I am not sure if immunotherapy or targeted may be considered ). The new and old cancers are/were localised,.

My concern is the appointment is not until 23/05 and seems some time away. Then There will be the delay in any possible treatment plan. I was wondering if It is possible to have a sooner appointment and/or treatment if agreed, paying privately, without messing up or obstructing the NHS process already in place. Dad very much wants to remain with the same oncologist. Any advice would be very much appreciated

Thank you in advance

[RoyCastleHelpline Partner Ask the Nurse Roy Castle]

Dear M123456789,

I am sorry to hear that your dads scan has shown another small tumour and it is totally understandable that you might want a second opinion.

In the first instance I would contact your father’s oncology team and express your concerns about the length of time you have till the next appointment it may be possible that this can be brought forward, you can also discuss with them the option of private treatment or a second opinion. The best way to make contact with the team is likely through the consultants secretary. Below I have added a link from cancer research which gives information on how to obtain a second opinion and also the pros and cons, it can give you some thoughts on how this would benefit your dads situation.

cancerresearchuk.org/about-...

If you would like to discuss anything you can email ask the nurse at [e-mail] or call our free phone nurse led helpline number on 0800 358 7200 Monday to Thursday 0900-1700 and Friday 0900-1600

Kind regards

The Roy Castle Support Team