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Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) P16+

Head & Neck Cancer | Last Active: Apr 4 8:21pm | Replies (110)

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@brad78

At this time the doctors want to just observe so no radiation. Pathology was such that they think I'm good. A little nervous about that. Not sure what those numbers mean but I'm sure I'm getting ready to learn.

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Replies to "At this time the doctors want to just observe so no radiation. Pathology was such that..."

I believe the medical community is finding the HPV 16 version of throat cancer very treatable and they are using de-escalation radiation treatments in trials. I imagine that is why no radiation was ordered in your case? You say it was caught very early, Stage was low with a good Pathology report. I requested less than 30 rounds (60 gy) but was told I needed that much. Stage2/3 . As my radiologist said it would be just to "clean up" and remaining cancer cells. I was hoping for 30 Gy as I have seen many trials in that range of de-escalation. It sounds like they are using all the tools to monitor for reoccurrence which is good. Also, since you have not had any radiation or Chemo you will have those tools in your toolbelt to use in the future. They do not like to use radiation on the same area twice. It is hard to trust your doctor but for the most part they have a good grip on how to best treat your cancer. Have faith and good luck!