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Advanced bladder cancer

Sonnyreacher
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Hello,

my dad has recently had it verbally confirmed that his bladder cancer is back and has advanced. He is having a pet scan today but I am trying to keep him positive.

I really want an idea from someone anyone on prognosis, I know they're waiting on the pet scan but I'm not sure what this will tell them over and above the ct?

he had a ct early March that showed enlarged and more numerous lymph nodes in his pelvis and retroperitoneal cavity.

Since then his leg has swelled up and has significant pain they have said this is probably lymphodeama. He then had a second ct which is when they called and said it has advanced.

but no one has said how, where or what that means. I know they want this pet scan first but I really can't keep him positive and say advanced doesn't mean it's not treatable if I should prepare him for something else . What's the likelihood he will be fine? How quickly will this progress?

thanks in advance

  • Hello there and thanks for getting in touch

    I am sorry to hear about your dad's cancer coming back and appreciate this must be a worry and that you have some questions.

    I'm sure you won't be surprised to hear that it is really only your dad's specialist doctor who can give the bigger picture about what these findings mean in terms of treatment options and prognosis.

    A PET scan is often able to give much clearer images and identify areas of cancer activity that will help the doctors decide what the best next steps may be for your dad.

    Unfortunately on the whole advanced cancer cannot be cured but sometimes treatment can be given to stall the cancer and control any symptoms for as long as possible. I don't know for sure but if this is confirmed as stage 4 then the outcome may be poor. However I would suggest taking it one day at a time and waiting and seeing what the team have to say.

    In regards to the swelling in your dad's legs this may well be caused by the cancer affecting and blocking the lymph nodes causing lymphoedema as they have already said. There is information about lymphoedema here but I am sure the specialist team will be looking at ways of managing this and giving your dad some relief from this, so do ask them when you can.

    I really hope you have a better understanding of this situation soon but do get back in touch anytime. The nurses also talk to people on the the helpline which you are welcome to call between 9-5 Mon-Fri on 0808 800 4040.

    Wishing you and your dad all the very best

    Naomi

  • Offline in reply to CRUK Nurse Naomi

    Thankyou for taking the time to reply to me I really appreciate it, your insight is very helpful Thankyou 

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