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Anyone have cancer with unknown primary?

Cancer | Last Active: 6 days ago | Replies (155)

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@dkoontz

My enlarged lymph nodes were in my pelvis. Based on the initial biopsy they did they were able to pinpoint where the cancer were be coming from - cervical, rectal anal or oropharyngeal (back of the throat, base of the tongue and tonsils) cancer. It was squamous cell but also HPV. My Pap smear had been normal or very odd. They I had a scope of my throat and such all biospies were done in cervix and rectum. after all the biopsies the decision was to take out one of the enlarged lymph nodes and send it to a specialized lab with the hope it would define where the cancer was. it came bas as 70% cervical and the decision was made to treat for both cervical and rectal/anal as nobody was comfortable enough to us 70% as the answer.
I too went from doctor to doctor for each biopsy and it did take time. I will say there were very quick in getting me in for appts. in the end they knew the lymph nodes were growing (and so did I as I could feel them in the end) so it was time to treat.
I externally talked with a lot of people like it looks like you are. In fact through one friend my labs were send to him (radiologist) to have another look.
I would assume at this point they have done a biopsy and you should know the cell type. this definitely helps identifying location and type of cancer. Also, we are the only ones that know our bodies. I let them know the lymph nodes were increasing and this helped to get the next scan and to move forward with treatment. (we were able to determine the % of growth thus the pace). Don't be afraid to be you own advocate and to tell you doctor any and every change.
Let me know if I can help with any other questions.

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Replies to "My enlarged lymph nodes were in my pelvis. Based on the initial biopsy they did they..."

Sounds like you have found the best treatment plan for your recovery.
How many tests and how long all up do you think it took to find the right outcome?
I still think he needs more tests to hopefully find the primary source. Think next one he needs is a colonoscopy.
He has his second opinion specialist appointment on Friday.
Can you think of any questions that may need to be asked?
How long have you been having treatment for?
Thank you for your help and appreciate all your advice.