Sqad -Secondary Breast Cancer

[237SJ]

I know what I think but I would just like someone else`s opinion (in a gentle way if you don`t mind because it is upsetting) "The CT scan reported new subpleural opacity within the left mid-zone which could represent a new site of disease or could be inflammatory change. The bone scan did not show any change since her last scan, showing widespread foci of uptake seen throughout the skeleton and long bones. Clinically, Mrs ***** has not been experienceing any chest symptoms, coughing nor pain as such, also no new pain in her bones. After discussion with Dr P***** this new subpleural lesion is of uncertain aetiology but as she has had long term Vinorelbine treatment, we would propose a break from treatment for eight weeks etc The comment about 'opacity' is curious to me because that says that they don`t know if it is a tumour or a pleural effusion. I`m pretty sure that if there is something there, it is to do with the cancer. I don`t see how it can be anything else. BTW I`m not bothered about the situation in the bones as we know where we are as regards that.

[237SJ]

BTW I forgot to say -"The CT scan reported etc ......we would propose a break from treatment" were the Oncology peoples` words and not mine.

[Sqad]

This all centres around the new lesion that has appeared on recent X-Ray.

If the radiologists are not sure, then my comments may be well of mark...but.

It is in the left mid zone, so very unlikely to be an effusion..odd place for an effusion.

Yes it could be inflammatory, but that would suggest a degree of symptomatology...cough, shortness of breath, sputum or pyrexia (temperature)

My best guess, based on what you have posted mixed with a few assumptions from me, would be a new secondary deposit from a breast carcinoma.

Opacity is a general radiological term meaning a white shadow.

[237SJ]

Thanks sqad. I don`t think they mean inflammation in the traditional sence, I think they are talking about inflammatory change that occurs in cancer - a sort of hot spot where there is pre-cancerous change. Either way, I don`t see what else it can be.