Since the last post there has been a fair bit of activity on both the cancer and PITA front.
Shortly after our appointment with the oncologist we received an appointment for a CT scan on May 4th with a follow up oncology appointment to review the findings on May 8th. At this appointment we should know if radiation is a viable treatment.
Today, April 25, 2023, we had an appointment with our Colo-rectal surgeon to discuss my current symptoms, pain management and the status of the gastroenterologist (GI) consult.
After discussing the symptoms along with another physical examination his comment was that it’s no worse, but is also not improving. His recommendation at this point is to perform an outpatient surgery to help drain one of the abscesses/fistula by placing a seton. While he’s there a scope examination and further biopsies will be performed. This procedure will take place next Tuesday May 2, 2023 at 7:45 a.m.
For pain management there has been an increased dosage in long acting Hydromorphone, some fast acting Hydromorphone for breakthrough pain management and some serious antibiotics.
For the GI consultation my case will be reviewed on May 18, 2023 during GI grand rounds where the IBD Gastroenterologist Dr. Seth Schaffer, will present my case to all the other GI specialists to get the best thinking on my situation. Dr. Schaffer will call me within the week following to discuss the next steps. These steps are likely to include a capsule endoscopy and if biologics are indicated and which one(s) would be best to treat my situation.
Unfortunately, the PITA + Lymphoma = complications. Biologics to treat the PITA are known to aggravate lymphoma. 😕 Treating the lymphoma with chemo also causes problems with PITA treatments. Things are getting complicated.
One of the better treatment paths is to get the approval for radiation of the lymphoma, for it to work and then treat the PITA with biologics and have them work as well. 🙏
It’s all more than a little overwhelming but we have a big God who is with us at all times and in all things. Plus we have a wonderful support system of family near and far, our Oasis church family with special Life Group friends, and our special friends Chris and Elaine that we’ve done a lot of life with, over 40+ years.