Squamous cell metastised from base of tongue to lung

Hi, I had radical radiotherapy for scc base of tongue and neck lymphs 2 1/2 years ago.   Seemed to be cured.. all looking good.  Just had diagnosis of scc in both lungs and central lymphs.  Given cancer in both lungs, surgery is out; I am being led to believe that I can't have radiotherapy as i has it for my tongue cancer: and there only seems to be the old platinum cudgels left (cisplatin etc).

I would like to ask a couple of questions please?  1. Is it correct that I can't have radiotherapy for this following previous head and neck sessions (30 sessions) ending June 2022?   Also, are any other treatments recommended (ablation, cryo etc)?

I am trying to get my ducks in a row to know what my real options are.

Many thanks

  • Hello and thanks for posting,

    I can appreciate that you would want to know more. Unfortunately, as nurses, we can't give you a detailed medical opinion on your treatment options.

    Radiotherapy may be able to be given to other areas of the body, if needed. It cannot be repeated to the same body tissue area though, as in your previously treated head and neck area. Targeted radiotherapy/ablation etc. lung treatments can only be used for small localised areas in the lungs usually. Chemotherapy is given as a systemic treatment, and more likely if lymph nodes are also involved. Sometimes, it is possible to use an immunotherapy drug (pembrolizumab or nivolumab) for squamous cell tongue cancer (SCC). A targeted drug called cetuximab can be given, but usually alongside radiotherapy. 

    We have a section on treatments on our website

    I hope that you get to find out more soon,

    Please get back to us if you need any more information or support.  You may find it helpful to talk things through with one of the nurses on our helpline.  The number to call is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open from 9am till 5pm Monday to Friday.

    Yours sincerely,

    Vanda