Diagnosed with Ovarian and Colon Cancer

Marcy, you may be interested in these related discussions:

- Lynch Syndrome & Colon Cancer
https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/lynch-syndrome-colon-cancer/
- Dealing with Lynch Syndrome and Constant Screenings
https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/dealing-with-lynch-syndrome-and-constant-screenings/

Thank you for posting the link!

Yes – screening has identified several cancers. After I found out I have Lynch, my aunt got tested and found it too. At her first screening they found early stage kidney cancer.

My daughter found pre-cancerous polyps at age 31, more than a decade before she would normally have a colonoscopy.

And I’m in the middle of a possible rectal cancer diagnosis right now. I was having symptoms and moved my annual colonoscopy 2 months earlier. If I didn’t know I had Lynch, I probably would’ve waited several more months before doing something!

@msmarcy, I noticed that you wished to post a URL to an article with your post. You will be able to add URLs to your posts in a few days. There is a brief period where new members can't post links. We do this to deter spammers and keep the community safe.

Allow me to post it for you:
- Few People with Cancer Undergo Testing for Inherited Gene Mutations https://www.cancer.gov/news-events/cancer-currents-blog/2023/germline-testing-for-cancer-underused

Msmarcy, you mention that you have Lynch syndrome. Has regular cancer screening detected any cancers for you or your children?

I think a her doctor to oncologist discussion would be good if not required. If able, mom should be part of that discussion. It's her (or designated legal representative's) call based on advice of the medical professionals.

There are things that the oncologist can do to the chemo regimen if necessary. It appeared to me that the protocol is to start with the maximum chemo and back off if/when problems occur.

In my case, I started with FOLFOX6 and I asked them to drop the steroid amount given when they start chemo (I like to sleep at night) which they did and a few weeks later, they dropped the oxaliplatin because of nasty side effects. Collapsing in the infusion center will motivate that!

Mine was Stage 3C, not 4... your mother's experience will be different.

All the best for you and your mother.

Hi - just want to be sure I was clear - I was recommending germline genetic testing. I’m including a link for more information.

And I’m so sorry that I can’t answer your gut-wrenching question. I’m not sure there’s any way to know. I think you have to go with your mom’s wishes.

I can’t post the actual link, but this may help:
www cancer.govnews-events/cancer-currents-blog/2023/germline-testing-for-cancer-underused

Thank you for your concern. When the doctor disclosed the diagnosis of my mother's stage 4 colon cancer, we were advised that my siblings, especially before they turn 50, should undergo testing. In my case, I was also recommended to be tested for prostate and colon cancer. Additionally, my elder sibling battled stage 2 breast cancer, underwent surgery, completed chemotherapy, and is currently recovering well with regular medication.

Currently, our family is deliberating whether to proceed with my mother's chemotherapy due to her fragile state. Recently, she experienced severe stomach pains and vomiting, leading us to rush her to the ER where she received dextrose and potassium. Given her advanced stage, chemotherapy remains an option, yet considering her weakened condition, managing its side effects poses a challenge.

Do you believe it would be wise for us to revisit her doctor to discuss her current state and reassess whether she can endure chemotherapy?

Hi - what a difficult road. I’m so sorry. I do want to make sure that your mom was tested for Lynch Syndrome – an inherited genetic predisposition to cancer. Both ovarian and colon cancers are common. Please find out from her doctor whether she was tested or not. She may not have it, but she should definitely be tested. If she does have it, her children, each have a 50% chance of inheriting it. (I have it and so do both of my children. We are screened regularly to catch anything early.)

Getting a second opinion is never a bad choice.
It's a really great choice if it comes from a source of proven reliability and referral.
I have to believe that at 72 and a weakened health condition overall, surgery would be a better tolerated event vs. chemotherapy.
In fact, recovery from a surgery over time is expected.
Months of a chemo regimen can be debilitating as side effects can be intolerable and often regretted.
Regardless of how these decisions are made, this lady has to have support from family and given the final say.
Respect her wishes, keep her comfortable and there will be no regrets.
Paul

I'm so sorry to hear that your mother is not doing well and that the treatment is also a financial burden. I think that letting your mother make her own choices about treatment and making sure that she is as comfortable as possible are the most important things. There may not be a best choice. Or rather, you have to believe that the best choice is the one that your family chooses.

Thank you for your insightful message and concern. You're absolutely correct that no biopsy has been performed yet, and we've solely relied on the ultrasound results. Following the colonoscopy biopsy, our oncologist diagnosed my mother with stage 4 cancer and advised against surgery. We've been referred to another doctor for chemotherapy supervision, but the financial strain is overwhelming.

Given my mother's weak physical state and the potential side effects of chemotherapy, we're grappling with whether to proceed. At 72, she's already struggling with discomfort and requires medication just to ease her condition. We're deeply torn and seeking guidance on the best course of action moving forward. Your advice would be greatly appreciated during this challenging time.