Tumor regrowth - newbie to forum

[kathycurran]

In 2009 I was diagnosed with a 3.5 centimeter tumor, after months of telling Dr.'s something was wrong and hearing how healthy I was.  I had a trans lab followed by 5 weeks of radiation.  I still have a few balance issues and a small amount of facial paralysis, as well as eye issues and deafness in the left ear.  I have worked diligently to get my life back to as normal as possible.  I had my annual MRI in December and it appears that the tumor may be regenerating.  I go back for a recheck in June to see if it is or if it was just swelling.  I am trying to be pro-active and determine what my options may be if it is growing.  Has anyone experienced this?  If so any advice would be greatly appreciated.  I am trying to remain, active physically, mentally and spiritually, but this has been a kick in the pants.

[CHD63]

Hi Kathy and welcome to this forum .....

So glad you posted your situation to get some feedback from others in similar situations.

Although I did not have the same situation you did, I did experience regrowth of my AN after my first surgery, which was retrosigmoid approach and no radiation following it.  In my case, radiation is not a good option for treatment because of exposure to high dose radiation in my early teen years.  Therefore, I had a second surgery in May, 2011 (via translab approach) 3 1/2 years after the original surgery.  As of my most recent MRI (November, 2012), a smidgen of something is still being watched.  I pray it does not grow again or I will be faced with yet another treatment decision.

I pray that your tumor is not growing.  Sometimes it can appear to grow/change when it is just a difference in MRI machines and/or different radiologists measuring.  The margin of error is 1-2mm so that needs to be factored in, as well.

Let us know how you are doing.

Clarice

[It is what it is]

I'm sorry to hear about a possible regrowth.  I'll hope you receive good news with your next MRI.  My 6 month MRI since having surgery is scheduled for the middle of February.  I'm also interested in reading the responses you receive from others.

Clarice, you are a wonderful person. 

[Kathleen_Mc]

I had a regrowth, found 7 years post-op from translab, becuase I had already lost all possible the first time around I went on watch and wait for a few years and then had it removed surgically as was continuing to grow (it didn't have to come out yet but I wanted it out)
Kathleen

[kathycurran]

Thank you for the responses.  The thought of another surgery is upsetting to say the least.  I appreciate hearing that some of you have had a second surgery and came out the other side.  I will keep you updated when I know something more.  One Dr. said it could possibly be scar tissue, never have wanted scar tissue more.

[ghenier27]

I am just 3 years post surgery BUT, when the doctor went to removed my tumor. There was also a 2nd one already growing. He got them both and I have been blessed since then. I will tell you in the past, while waitting to see the doctor I have met some people those tumors have come back and they- like you had to have them surgically removed. And they all had good results. keep positive and I feel sure everything will be just fine.