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Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) P16+
Head & Neck Cancer | Last Active: 2 days ago | Replies (117)Comment receiving replies
Hello fellow SCC patients
I was diagnosed with SCC HPV+
About two months ago. It’s a slow process to get all tests and appointments done. Referral nightmares. Blah blah blah. But I got the surgery done to remove the mass on left side of neck but they didn’t have the order to do the chemo port at same time. That was three weeks ago. Tomorrow I get the port. Then I still need to get radiation appointment and fitting done. Such a slow case. Mainly at the hands of my oncologist and PCP offices. Referrals have been a nightmare
Hopefully I can start treatment at end of May.
Replies to "Hello fellow SCC patients I was diagnosed with SCC HPV+ About two months ago. It’s a..."
Hi @kevinsmccarson60 I agree with others here that HPV+ type has proven to be quite successfully cured in most patients. The road to cure however is a difficult road, taking over your life for a few months, and not a fun trip whatsoever. If you have questions, this is the place to ask. Don't hesitate to start a new Discussion with your question(s) as specific results are more easily obtained that way.
All I will say is please question your care team as to their experience with SSC in head and neck specifically. If they are first timers, please seek a referral for the best care. In the long term, it will matter most the care you received. Courage.
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Hello @kevinsmccarson60 and welcome to Connect Head n Neck. I'm sorry that you are joining us with your diagnosis, but you may appreciate hearing of others' experiences and feeling the support of individuals who know what you are going through. The medical community today is tough to navigate. Waiting is the worst, when all you want to do is get that cancer OUT NOW.
I was lucky to experience treatment at Mayo Rochester after 4 months of local doctors and tests prior to a diagnosis. Things can happen so very fast at Mayo that it spoils you for dealing with the normal medical journey. Keep after your medical team for better timing as you are your own best advocate. Sometimes the squeaky wheel does get the grease.
While radiation and chemo are not a fun experience, the sooner started, the closer you are to the end and healing can begin. We are here to help if you have any questions.