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NSCLC Tough choice - radiation or surgery?

Lung Cancer | Last Active: Oct 1, 2022 | Replies (8)

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@kkckkjm

Hello and thank you all for your comments. I did already have a biopsy done but the tissue sample, while confirming malignancy, was to small to make a biomarker analysis. The removed right lobe had EFGR but that doesn't mean (I've been told) the same cancer is in the left lung. I have switched to Mayo and another national cancer center for 2nd and 3rd opinions from that of my original team. Three centers, 3 different perspectives and recommendations. I have narrowed it down to 2. Radiation is off the table. Surgery (wedge resection rather than lobectomy) is 1 option, then determine type of cancer with all the tissue. The second option is do another navigational bronchoscopy to attempt to get more nodule tissue to type the cancer, and also sample lymph nodes for spread. It was a difficult navigational situation the first time so I'm not so inclined to do that procedure again as it is risky with uncertain results. Or I could just start targeted therapy under an assumption it is the same EFGR cancer and see if the medication reduces the nodule size. It is alot to consider.

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Replies to "Hello and thank you all for your comments. I did already have a biopsy done but..."

Those are great options but very difficult decisions.
I can only offer my experience. I have ALK positive lung cancer, a similar mutation, stage IV, so I only had the choice of the targeted therapy, not surgery. The pills have worked wonders for me. Within days of starting the drug I was feeling better and knew it was working. Within 6 months I was declared ‘no evidence of disease’ on scans. My cancer will never be cured and it will reoccur, but the targeted therapy has allowed me extra time. I am two years post diagnosis, and I know that I wouldn’t be here without it.
Wishing you well with your difficult decision ahead, Lisa