February 10, 2012

Ken had his first MRI since beginning chemotherapy.  The tumor has grown, slightly.  It was approximately 1.4 centimeters on January 13, and now is 1.9 centimeters.  Dr. M. feels that this warrants further action than the Temodar.  The fact that the tumor has grown means that it is likely a more aggressive tumor than the original one.  Worst case scenario is that the new tumor is a grade IV.  The options include surgery, but he feels that they may not be able to get the entire tumor out without affecting Ken's motor function; however, the decision lies with the surgeon himself.  The second option is to enroll in a clinical trial at Sloan-Kettering.  The trial would be a combination of a very focal radiation therapy, combined with the drug Avastin.  It is thought that the Avastin increases the oxygen flow to the area being radiated, therefore making the radiation more effective.  He says he has seen some success with this, and there is a trial opening on February 16.  The trial involves Avastin via IV Infusion once, then again in two weeks, followed by three doses of radiation.  In reading the trial materials, it seems that following radiation he would be on the Avastin indefinately (perhaps the rest of his life?).  Dr. M. needs to present the case again at Tumor Board, then meet with the Surgeon, and the radiation oncologist.  Then we will come up with a plan.