Treatment Options for Adenocarcinoma/Lung Cancer Stage 4 - Death & Dying Message Board

blueangel1103 · 06-19-2008, 08:31 AM

My mom was diagnosed 3 years ago with adenocarcinoma - unknown primary - stage 4. She took chemo and went into remission approx. 4 months later. It has been 3 years and with a 6 month checkup she found out that she has adenocarcinoma - lung cancer - stage 4.

Her oncologist recommended Taxol. If that doesn't work she will try Taxotere. The oncologist does not recommend using the same chemo that worked the first time (Gemzar and Carboplatin). Is this normal to not use the same chemo that worked before?

I have also read that when someone receives Taxol they also get Carboplatin and they receive it one time a week for 3 weeks and then they have a week off. My mom will only be receiving the Taxol one time every 3 weeks. Is this normal?

I hope someone can explain this to me.

sheila06 · 06-23-2008, 02:17 PM

I have NSCLC stage IV, it is my understanding that stage 4 is in the blood and not cureable, however manageable. It sounds your mother got three years of no activity with the cancer, and now it has become active again. Also, my doctor stated if mine becomes active again he will not use the original chemo as your body becomes quickly immune to it...as a rule. I would hope your mother doesn't have to have carboplatin again....it is the worst, or for me it was. I hope this helps you.

blueangel1103 · 07-02-2008, 06:43 AM

Thanks for the reply Sheila06! Mom seems to be doing ok for now. We will find out in 6 weeks if the chemo is working or not.