Another CT scan, even worse results. Not only did the tumor wrapped around my Inferior Vena Cava (IVC) not shrink, it actually grew. The big tumor that doesn't matter either shrunk or grew, depending on which CT you compare it to, but it doesn't matter. That tumor could be removed surgically any time. The smaller tumor that was originally lymph nodes is the problem, and it definitely grew. So that's the end of chemo treatment 2. No blood test today, no chemo tomorrow, snow day!
What does that mean? More tests. Way WAY back when the chemo doctor first came on in the role of Dr. 7 she had requested my original biopsy from January 2019 be tested for cancer markers. There wasn't anything left to test, so that means another biopsy now. They'll test to see if the cancer shows weakness to cancer genetic markers that have an approved immunotherapy. If the cancer is susceptible, then we'll do immunotherapy next. Otherwise, it will be another chemo cocktail. There's also a (slim but) possible blood clot on the CT, so there will be vein mapping by CT to make sure it's not a blood clot. If it is a blood clot, they'll put me on blood thinners. Otherwise, no action. Good thing the deductible is paid already.
Regardless, I get three weeks for the tests, a pelagic trip, and the results. The biopsy results alone will take 7-10 days. That means no chemo for another three weeks - on top of three weeks since the last treatment. I'm curious how much better I'll feel - or not - with another three weeks off treatment.
Cancer sucks.
