The tumor is malignant. It's grade 4, which means it's very malignant. The neurologist said he recommends steroids for the swelling (which Paul has started already), surgery to remove some of the tumor (can't remove all because would damage too much healthy tissue), then radiation therapy, and then chemotherapy.
Surgery is a big question mark, because of the possibility of damaging good tissue, which could leave Paul with less ability to communicate (speaking and writing both as well as understanding). We will talk to the neurosurgeon tomorrow to get pros and cons regarding surgery.
We're planning to also get a second opinion from someone at U of C. HMO probably won't pay for it, unless our neurosurgeon is willing to say he wants another opinion, but Paul's siblings are willing to help pay if HMO won't. The second opinion is not really for the diagnosis but for the treatment options.
Karen and Philip are both home and are handling things well. I'll keep you posted.
Continue to: July 20, 1997
Return to: Diary of a Brain Tumor Patient's Wife
Created and maintained by Renette Davis. Send comments to Renette by clicking here.
Created: May 1, 1999
Latest revision: July 18, 2010