Stage IV Question

[AnnmasonKey]

I have Stage IV OV. My oncologist said there is no (or no longer) Stage IV A and IV B subdivisions; it`s all just Stage IV.

But I notice us who have to live with this delightful disease DO use the distinction.

Can anyone clarify, or is sumply a U.S. thing?

[Choski]

I've just looked at the Cancer Research UK site to check latest updates on Staging and it still states this for stage 4:

Stage 4 ovarian cancer means the cancer has spread to other body organs some distance from the ovaries, such as the liver or lungs. Stage 4 cancer can be

Stage 4a - the cancer has caused a build up of fluid in the lining of the lungs (called the pleura). This is called a pleural effusion.

Stage 4b - the cancer has spread to the inside of the liver or spleen, to the lymph nodes in the groin or outside the abdomen and/or to other organs such as the lungs.

Read more at cancerresearchuk.org/about-...

I'm sure that other lovely ladies on this site can give more/better replies. Hope you are well, take care

Clare X

[AnnmasonKey in reply to Choski]

Thanks. I guess I`m IV a. That`s something to hang on to!

[Lyndy]

Hello

I think this subdivision is quite new... In the last year, so your onc may not be aware of it. Xx

[AnnmasonKey in reply to Lyndy]

Wow, I wonder what else he may not know