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Father diagnosed with Kidney cancer and lung cancer. Oncology appointment tomorrow, what questions should we ask?

Lavatera
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Hi

My 74 year old father has been diagnosed with kidney cancer. A large mass was found on one kidney. It has spread to the both lungs. A biopsy has been done on the kidney but he has been told it’s not possible to do a biopsy on the lungs as it is close to a main artery.

Initially he was told that the kidney would be removed but no longer possible.


He has been told that immunotherapy may be possible. He has an appointment with the oncologist tomorrow. What questions does he need to ask?

If we ask what stage the cancer is, does that mean how advanced the cancer is? And if we ask what grade it is, does that mean how fast it is growing? 

He had prostate cancer 4 years ago which was treated with radiotherapy and hormones and was given the all clear. He has been told that the new cancer isn’t a result of the prostate cancer. 

Thank you

  • Hello Lavatera

    How did your Father get on with his Oncology appointment yesterday? I hope that the team were able to answer some of the questions you had and offer some reassurance about the next steps with his care. 

    If there's anything you'd like to talk through with one of our nurses you're welcome to call them on 0808 800 4040, Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm. I know they will be happy to listen and offer any advice, information and support they can. 

    Best wishes, 
    Jenn
    Cancer Chat moderator 

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    I'm so sorry that your father has been diagnosed with a new primary that's spread. Immunotherapy is an amazing invention and I hope it helps your dad's body fight the cancer. I'm sorry noone replied in time to give you advice but I hope you felt the consultation went well and you are armed with more knowledge and hope.

  • Offline in reply to Lyns21

    Hi  

    Thank you so much for replying.

    I think we are still numb from the diagnosis, as if it isn’t real. Immunotherapy will start in January. Intravenous and tablets.


    The  oncologist said that if the cancer reacts positively then it will extend my father’s life expectancy by up to two years. If not then it is months. It’s stage 4. A biopsy on the lung is not possible as it’s too close to a main artery. 

    Trying to stay positive and hoping that if he suffers any side effects from the treatment that he will be able to cope. 

    There are four nodules on one lung. The oncologist did say that if the mass on the kidney does shrink then there may be the option of removing the kidney but that possibility  is a long way away. 

    Thank you for your kind reply and support. 

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