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DiscussionDoes a change in CA19-9 indicate change in tumor?
Pancreatic Cancer | Last Active: 2 days ago | Replies (41)Comment receiving replies
Replies to "Good info and thanks. Gives me some ammo to discuss with my oncologist. I've been concerned..."
I too have PACC and switched over to MRI with/without contrast due to concerns of cumulative X-radiation. Of prticular concern is the potential of a new primary tumor developing in ling tissue. This was of concern in patients that received CT scans between the period of 1979-1984 when more radiation exposure was required for imaging to compensate for less sensitivity of systems in that time period. As a 12 year survivor of stage IV PACC, I was receiving frequent CT scans for the first five years of at least 4/yr. At the recommendation of several oncologists, I switched to MRI about 7 years ago.
Some people raise issue with the contrast medium gadolinium. A newer generation of gadolinium is in use. I have been keeping vigil for studies on long-term use of gadolinium and long-term effects. The FDA has a group to collect clinical reports on adverse reactions resulting from short and ling-term use of gadolinium. At present, there have been no advisories except for those that already have impaired kidney function and their are advisories in its use in this cohort with a pre-existing condition.