Hi Eleanor,
I moved your message to the Brain Tumor group because I want to introduce you to @audrapopp @Jackiewizardof @eaglesview @ljsandlin.

I completely understand how difficult it must be to "do nothing". In actual fact, your medical team is not inactive, but rather actively monitoring you. This is likely because the risk of treatment is more dangerous than the possible benefits. I prefer the term "active surveillance" rather than "no effort".

Here's how the National Cancer Institute defines active surveillance: "Closely watching a patient’s condition but not giving treatment unless symptoms appear or change. Watchful waiting is sometimes used in conditions that progress slowly. It is also used when the risks of treatment are greater than the possible benefits. During watchful waiting, patients may be given certain tests and exams. It is a type of expectant management."

How often will you see your neurosurgeon for follow-up? Did they explain what you can expect?

Jump to this post