Hi there Wanda and thanks for the post

I am sorry to hear about the treatment you have been through for cancer and can appreciate you questioning what this recent scan has shown.

The term sclerosis refers to abnormal dense, hardened or scarred areas that show up bright or white on a CT scan. When someone hasn't had these on their scan prior to treatment it causes worry that the cancer may have spread, but this isn't always the case.

Sometimes if a cancer responds well to chemotherapy, the healing process may affect areas of bone to become harder and denser. This makes them look whiter (more sclerotic) on a follow-up CT scan. As a result, these areas may become more noticeable than they were before treatment and can sometimes be mistaken for cancer spread or mets, even though they may actually be a sign that the chemo/treatment has been doing it's job.

From what you have said it seems your specialist doctor thinks this is the case for you but do speak with them again to get a clearer understanding about this.

I hope this is helpful but do get back in touch if you wish to. You are also welcome to call the helpline if you prefer on 0808 800 4040, we're here weekdays 9-5.

Best wishes

Naomi

Hi there Wanda and thanks for the post

I am sorry to hear about the treatment you have been through for cancer and can appreciate you questioning what this recent scan has shown.

The term sclerosis refers to abnormal dense, hardened or scarred areas that show up bright or white on a CT scan. When someone hasn't had these on their scan prior to treatment it causes worry that the cancer may have spread, but this isn't always the case.

Sometimes if a cancer responds well to chemotherapy, the healing process may affect areas of bone to become harder and denser. This makes them look whiter (more sclerotic) on a follow-up CT scan. As a result, these areas may become more noticeable than they were before treatment and can sometimes be mistaken for cancer spread or mets, even though they may actually be a sign that the chemo/treatment has been doing it's job.

From what you have said it seems your specialist doctor thinks this is the case for you but do speak with them again to get a clearer understanding about this.

I hope this is helpful but do get back in touch if you wish to. You are also welcome to call the helpline if you prefer on 0808 800 4040, we're here weekdays 9-5.

Best wishes

Naomi