When do they start chemo again?

[Lovis]

Does anyone know at what stage they start chemo again if there is a reoccurrence? Do they have to see something suspicious on a scan before they do anything? Would they treat just on a rising CA125?

[Hidden]

Mostly people are treated for a recurrence when they start having symptoms. but then they also have a scan and maybe a ca125 confirming the symptoms are correct

Love x G x

[Hidden]

Hi, Sandra has experienced numerous recurrences. The main tool for triggering more chemo is the CT scan and not a rising CA125. The blood test may trigger the scan but sometimes a rising CA125 may not be large enough for a scan to pick up growth or spread. Once a recurrence is confirmed it depends on where it is before they decide on further chemo. Nowadays the oncologists balance quality of life with the need to endure more chemo so if you have no symptoms they may just keep an eye on you. On the other hand if you do have problems or they think the recurrence warrants treatment they will suggest chemo but you will have the final choice. Love Paul xx

[HopeP]

I have a rising ca125 and spread to lymph glands confirmed by pet scan.

They are still waiting and watching, confirming what has been said about balancing quality of life with treatment. Very difficult to watch and wait when you know it's back but have to stay positive.

[HumbleD]

I had a rising CA 125 and pain in my abdomen, tender to the touch. After a CT scan it showed that the cancer had returned and so I was started on second line chemo within weeks. I had three weekly Carboplatin/Gemcitibine/Avastin second time around. Are you concerned that it may have returned or is it that you just wanted to get an idea of what might happen?

Love Wendy x

[francescahannah]

I think it varies from doctor to doctor. Mine is usually a mixture of both rising ca125 and scan results and he delays it so there's add much time as possible between chemo lines. But we're all different and so is our disease. Good luck with your treatment

Francesca x

[lassi]

My CA125 rose to 3,200 before they gave me second line chemo of which I have only four more sessions to go !!! they told me at the Hospital that they go by the results of the scan more than the rising CA125. Wishing you Good Luck with your outcome. Trish xx

[Katmal-UK]

Hi Lovis

Sometimes you can decide for yourself. With me I feel I have to be doing something if my CA125 is rising and something is found on the scan even though I have never been symptomatic. My Consultant agrees that this is the best way forward for me, certainly as far as my mental health is concerned. Both times I have started chemo therapy within a week of being told my CA125 is rising and the result of my scan.

Wishing you all the best, sending a big hug xxx

Kathy xxx