Recurring neck cancer

Hi, this is not for me, but for my son. He had treatment for hpv neck cancer last year, with the all clear before Christmas. Now it seems like it has returned, dr said there's an area of concern, blood test shows high platelets. He has mri next week, with results the following week. I am out of my mind with worry, please, what are the most likely outcomes if it has returned?

  • I don't have any answers for you but just to let you know I'm thinking of you qnd hoping for the best for your son. Hope you get some answers soon x

  • Thank you, so lovely you took the time. There was lots of positivity the first time around, now I'm so scared of losing him. He's 43, but he'll always be my baby. 
    We should know in a fortnight what will happen next, but thank you again.

    I'm guessing you have your own story? X

  • My parents are the same abut me I'm 44 now but yep still their little girl. Keep busy. We waste so much precious time with worrying about the possibilities. Its OK to feel how you do, for that very reason I haven't mentioned being worried about a reoccurance to my folks. I know my mu would spiral and my dad's health is real poor. So until I'm told to worry I won't, it doesn't change anything but it does alow for space to breathe . I hold you in my thoughts though qnd hope your lad is OK. Please let us know how it goes and I really hope your alright xxx

     

  • Hello Peakay and thanks for posting, 

    I can understand you asking, but I don't think anyone can predict what the likely outcome would be if your son's cancer returns - there are a number of variable factors that could have a bearing on this so it is impossible to say. Unfortunately, there is no way around waiting to see what the specialist team decide is going on, and if a recurrence is confirmed, hearing from them what the options are. 

    Waiting for tests and results is usually a horrible time and fear can run away with anyone involved. For now, try your best to hold your nerve and take things one step at a time - easier said than done I know.

    If you want to talk anything over please feel free to call us on Freephone 0808 800 4040, we are around weekdays, 9-5. 

    Best wishes,

    Julia

  • Hi Julia, thank you for your response. I understand what you are saying, everybody's case is different. We have no option but to wait and hope.

    Thanks again.

  • Thank you, I will message when we know more. Hoping you stay well xx

  • Hey Petrolrainbow, you were so kind when I was so worried about my son. He had mri, and saw the dr on Tuesday. The mri results aren't back yet, but the very experienced dr looked ar the mri and nothing jumped out at him. From a physical exam he doesn't think the mass is cancerous, and the camera saw nothing sinister this time. We still need the mri results, but everything is looking positive. Thank you for your support.

    The dr thinks maybe the new mass is scar tissue still growing, it means that where he was able to eat sausages, chicken steak, he is now back on runny porridge and soup. I wonder if anyone else has experienced this kind of progress, then had a step backwards?