Small Cell Carcinoma

[u/ElodyDubois]

I see a lot of posts for Non-small cell diagnoses, but I was wondering if anyone is living with, or cared for someone who had small cell carcinoma, limited stage.

When my father was diagnosed one year ago today, he was given an estimate of 12-18 months with an aggressive treatment plan. He followed the plan and did chemo and radiation. It was very hard on him.

Since then, a new study came out that suggests life can be extended to an average of 24-33 months with immunotherapy. He started immunotherapy and will continue therapy for two years, as the cancer comes back within 2 years 95% of the time.

Even with treatment, this diagnosis feels like a death sentence. The treatment can extend the life but actual remission is unlikely. The 5 year survival rate for men is 2%.

Right now, dad seems happy, alert, he’s putting on weight and rooting for the lady gamecocks basketball team to bring home the championship.

It seems like when people do take a turn for the worse, it’s very quick and traumatic. I have a lot of anxiety even though he seems to be doing well today. Based on his original prognosis, he’s living a miracle.

I’d just like to hear from others who had this specific diagnosis or family affected by this diagnosis.

I can’t sleep and am just crying in my bed, searching for comfort and/or understanding. I want to be prepared.

[u/Secure-Pineapple76_]

My mom was diagnosed with sclc about a year ago as well. One mass on her left lung.

She completed chemo and radiation to treat the cancer and had preventative brain radiation as well. Her cancer has shrunk and she has had no new growths.

She does have LEMS, and that’s taking more of a toll on her than anything.

What was the condition of your dad’s cancer when it was found? Had it spread elsewhere? Did he have preventative brain radiation?

I’m glad to hear he’s doing so well. Mom’s oncologists gave us statistics, but wouldn’t put a “time” on her life as everyone is different and medicine/research has progressed so much, it’s hard to say from person to person.

[u/ElodyDubois → u/Secure-Pineapple76_]

That’s wonderful.

Dad had a tumor in his left lower lobe and the cancer had spread to a nearby lymph node. His radiation was targeted to that area of his chest. His oncologist said he was not a good candidate for preventative brain radiation because of his age. He said the side effects weren’t worth the risk. He said, “I could ruin your life and it not stop the spread. My suggestion is to enjoy the time you have left.” He has brain scans and ct scans every 90 days to look for the spread. I’m sick with worry every time, but so far, so good.

[u/Secure-Pineapple76_ → u/ElodyDubois]

How old is your dad? My mom is 55. Did he develop any neurological disorders alongside the cancer? How did he come to realize he had it? What were his symptoms?

The preventative brain radiation was definitely a tough decision, if it wasn’t for my grandmothers cancer history my mom probably would not have gone through with it either. It has definitely caused some memory issues, her writing is perfectly eligible, but less neat, she occasionally forgets how to spell words and seems to react slower but she is still very much herself.

Fingers are crossed 🤞 I hope your dad continues to make progress :)

[u/ElodyDubois → u/Secure-Pineapple76_]

68 years old. He had a small stroke and stutters or can’t find the right word at times. He was a lifelong alcoholic until his diagnosis, when he stopped cold Turkey and hasn’t touched a drop since. The alcoholism affected his brain/neurological state in that he has impaired mobility and has trouble with his balance.

Dad had no symptoms. It was caught on a preventative lung cancer screening due to his 50+ years of smoking.

Yes that was a hard decision for sure. I think you guys made the right one for your mom. I still struggle with whether or not my dad should have tried but so far, no spread. The doctor did say once it spreads to the brain, we would probably discuss palative treatment.

Thank you so much for sharing! Prayers of strength for you and your mom.