Connect
← Return to Advice needed about my Mom
Discussion
Comment receiving replies
What constitues stage 2b? I have a current dilation of 8mm with IPMN in the head of the pancreas. This was discovered incidental to diverticulitis. It was seen in 2013 but was only told about it 9 months ago. Monitoring via MRI every 6 months and EUS/ERCP with benign biopsies. Doc is encouraging a prophylactic Whipple which I just can't justify at this point. Thanks for any advice or tips you may have. Best of luck to you!
Replies to "What constitues stage 2b? I have a current dilation of 8mm with IPMN in the head..."
With my adenocarcinoma (the most common kind) 2B means that I had a tumor just over 2 cm (under 2 cm is Stage 1) and that I had 3 lymph nodes involved (more that 3 lymph nodes is called Stage 3). So I am 2B. The Whipple is a very big deal, so in makes sense to be super-cautious about getting one. I would get a second and perhaps even a third opinion on this if at all possible.
Connect
Each stage has certain parameters. I was stage 2 B in my tail. That means it was small and localized with no metastases. It was removed along with my spleen. The size of the tumor was 1.5 cm.
I would not get a Whipple if it is not indicated. But look at women who have the gene for breast cancer. Some elect to have a mastectomy so they cannot develop cancer. It's a tough decision. But if you are being monitored they will be able to see if it changes and then maybe you will need the surgery. Best of luck.