Hi,

I had bowel cancer, which was first missed after having an endoscopy. They thought at that point it was a hiatus hernia, but some months later after being given a colonoscopy bowel cancer was confirmed. I think the ct scan is first of all to confirm its size and as you say if it has spread. I can only presume a colonoscopy, being a small camera probe, doesn't give an accurate diagnosis.

My advice would be, if in doubt keep going back to the hospital, not the doctors. Once I was in the hospital system, I found them all fantastic. My view on doctors is quite the reverse.

Hope your parents both make a speedy recovery

Sreve

I'm no expert but I know that when I had thyroid cancer, which rarely spreads, they scanned my throat and chest immediately after diagnosis, like half an hour after they informed me they'd found cancer. And I had a whole body scan four months after the cancer was removed. I would imagine they check even if they think spread is unlikely?

Hi and thanks for posting

I'm sorry to hear about the situation going on with both of your parents - this must be very hard on you all , especially when you still are waiting for results of scans to see what is the extent of your dad's potential cancer.

It's not unusual to have a full body scan, as it sounds they need to still know what areas of the body, if any, are affected. They won't be able to talk things through with you all, including discussing any potential treatment, until they know exactly what the score is regarding the rest of the body organs. 

It's hard waiting for results and I hope it won't be too long a wait.

When you know a little more, if there is anything you would like to talk through regarding either of your parents, please do give us a call - Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open from 9am till 5pm Monday to Friday.

All the best to you and your family

Wanda

Thank you everyone for your replies.