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Vascular Issues Post-Treatment?
Hello, group. In 2015 I had 35 days of radiation and 3 rounds of cisplatin chemotherapy for stage IV oropharyngeal cancer. The tumor was at the base of my tongue and had spread to the lymph nodes on both sides of my neck. I’ve experienced osteoradianecrosis, and the usual dry mouth and taste issues that go along with the treatment. Now, I’ve been diagnosed with cerebrovascular disease. The doctor says the radiation has “frayed” the inside of my arteries resulting in some blockage and a pearl necklace-like effect to the arteries. I will be seeing a vascular neurologist next and am curious if anyone else has experienced vascular issues following treatment, especially radiation, for head and neck cancer. Thank you.
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Hello @catlyn. That is an interesting question. I have not been diagnosed with that and am 13 years post radiation/chemo for H&N SCC. One side of my neck was hit the hardest with radiation as the tumor started in my ear canal. One thought that I had in reading your post was my local oncologist suggesting having carotid scans periodically. I didn't really discuss the reasoning with him, but perhaps damage to these arteries is worth watching for? I hope someone else can comment here who has had experience with this diagnosis.
Please share what you learn from your visit with the vascular neurologist.