Stage 4 Cancer of tongue and lymph nodes

I’ve not had an opportunity to discuss a family members diagnosis with any medical professionals on my own.  I am trying to remain positive but no one has given any indication of what the odds are of successfully treating stage 4 tongue cancer which has spread to lymph nodes.   Surgery to remove the tumour is not an option. I would appreciate a realistic view on what the prognosis so we as a family know what to expect. 

Parents
  • You can get stats but the truth is every case is different.  The problem with stage 4 cancer is often that they cannot cure it but they aim to control it and you could get remission which is why I say everyone is different. Has your family member had a treatment program set in place? You will see the oncologist fairly regularly during treatment and it is probably wise for you to speak to them and ask what the prognosis is.  My mum had this form of cancer and it sadly claimed her life six months after diagnosis.

  • Thanks for commenting and sorry for your loss. We have been given a radiotherapy treatment schedule which is due to start in 2 weeks time (5 days/week for 6 weeks ) with 2 rounds of chemotherapy.
  • I wish I could back to this day 5 months ago. Dad dealt with treatment and side effects in an excellent manner and was so strong disbite his discomfort. The initial tumour has gone however the cancer has spread to several other areas, so much so that treatment is no longer an option.  We will meet with the team of doctors to discuss palliative care next week . I’ve been somewhat niave and the signs of improvement appear to be short lived, prognosis is in months now. The Drs were just as surprised as we were by the results. The road ahead is terrifying. 

Reply
  • I wish I could back to this day 5 months ago. Dad dealt with treatment and side effects in an excellent manner and was so strong disbite his discomfort. The initial tumour has gone however the cancer has spread to several other areas, so much so that treatment is no longer an option.  We will meet with the team of doctors to discuss palliative care next week . I’ve been somewhat niave and the signs of improvement appear to be short lived, prognosis is in months now. The Drs were just as surprised as we were by the results. The road ahead is terrifying. 

Children
No Data