Frequently Asked Questions

Questions related to nausea and vomiting, answered by experts in the field.

Chemotherapy Related Nausea

Dealing with chemotherapy induced nausea Dear OncoLink "Ask the Experts," My 20-year-old niece was diagnosed with a fibrolamellar hepatoma with extensive metastasis to nodes and organs. She is having "aggressive"chemotherapy and has several negative side effects including nausea, low platelets and white counts. Any information available would be helpful. Thanks,DS
Questions about Chemotherapy-related Fatigue Can chemotherapy-related fatigue last 5 months after treatment has ended? I recently returned to work as a teacher and felt dizzy and off balance. Can the fatigue reoccur slightly after returning to work? Lora Packel MS, PT, Coordinator of Cancer Therapy Services for the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania,
Resuming sexual relations after completion of chemotherapy and radiation therapy for anal cancer Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," I have just completed chemo and radiotherapy treatment for anal cancer I am worried about having sex again. Presently I have a yellow mucus discharge from my vagina and anus. It does seem to be getting better. Can I hope it will disappear and is it normal?James M. Metz, MD, Editor-in-Chief of OncoLink and Assistant
Nausea and Vomiting Dear OncoLink "Ask the Experts," What is nausea and vomiting? What can I do to prevent it? When should I call my doctor about it? How is it treated? Karen Bruchak, RN, MSN, MBA, of the Abramson Cancer Center of the University of Pennsylvania responds: What is Nausea and Vomiting? Nausea means being sick to
Increase calories and decrease nausea after esophagectomy Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," My mother had esophageal cancer 2 1/2 years ago and was treated with an esophagectomy. She is still using a J tube for nutrition. Nausea has been a constant companion since surgery, and has recently gotten worse. She is only using about 2 cans of Nutren per day, so caloric intake is under 1000 per day. She
Nausea and Vomiting with Whole Brain Radiotherapy Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," After a 3 year remission from breast cancer, my sister was diagnosed with a single brain metastasis in November. This was surgically removed, and then a 10-day course of whole brain radiotherapy (WBRT) began on January 3. Within four hours of her first treatment, she began to feel nausea which progressively got
Nausea During Lung Cancer Treatment Question My mother has lung cancer and is receiving radiation therapy, but she cannot receive chemotherapy until she is healthy enough. She has not been able to eat even before the radiation therapy started, and the cancer has spread so they need to hurry up and get her on to chemotherapy. She is taking Reglan for nausea but it is not helping. She
Ginger & Sea Bands For Nausea Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," Can massage be done during your chemo treatment? Will "sea bands" or ginger gum help with nausea?Jun Mao, MD, MSCE, Assistant Professor of Family Medicine and Community Health at Penn Medicine, responds: You can definitely incorporate massage during treatment and there are some studies to suggest massage helps
Foods To Prevent Nausea Are there any foods or supplements that can relieve nausea from chemo? Debra DeMille, MS, RD, CSO, Dietician at the Joan Karnell Cancer Center at Pennsylvania Hospital, responds: Anti nausea medicines have greatly improved and I highly recommend those. In addition, stay well hydrated, and you may try ginger products such as ginger tea. There
Rash related to Erbitux Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," What recommendations do you have for treating skin rash associated with Erbitux? Beth Eaby, MSN, CRNP, OCN, Bboard certified nurse practitioner and nationally certified oncology nurse, responds:Skin rash from Erbitux can have varying severity, so treatment varies depending on this. Using a thick emollient cream to
How villous adenoma relates to carcinoma Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," How are a villous adenoma and carcinoma thought to be related? Timothy C. Hoops, MD, Clinical Assistant Professor of Medicine in the Gastroenterology Division at the University of Pennsylvania and Director of Gastroenterology at Penn Medicine at Radnor, responds:It is accepted that most, if not all, colon
Is Circumcision Related to Cervical Cancer Risk? Is a woman at a higher risk of developing cervical cancer if her spouse is uncircumcised vs. a spouse that is circumcised? Ivor Benjamin, MD, Former co-Editor-in-Chief of OncoLink, responds: Possibly. There is some medical evidence to support an increased risk for developing cervical cancer in women who have male
Reducing Secretions Related to Metastatic Lung Cancer Question What is the best way to reduce the copious secretions related to metastatic lung cancer? Answer James M. Metz, MD, Editor-in-Chief of OncoLink and Professor of Radiation Oncology at Penn Medicine, responds: The answer would depend on what type of secretions to which you are referring. You should discuss the secretions with your
Age-Related Lung Cancer Risk Question At what age can you get lung cancer? Answer Barbara Campling, MD, Medical Oncologist, responds: The median age of diagnosis of lung cancer is in the mid 60's. This means that half of the people who get lung cancer are above this age and half are below it. This does not mean that only older people get lung cancer. The youngest patient that
Alcohol Related Pain and Hodgkin’s Disease Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," My initial Hodgkin's symptom was arm pain. It took 9 months to get diagnosed. The pain was increased with minimal amounts of alcohol ingestion. I am 9 months in remission after ABVD. What does the alcohol do to cause the pain?Babis (Charalambos) Andreadis, MD, MSCE, Assistant clinical professor of medicine at the
Finding Medicare RBRVS (Resource Based Relative Value Scale) Information Dear OncoLink "Ask the Experts," Hello. I am in search of the Medicare reasonable and customary fees. I have called everyone under the sun and surfed till I can surf no more. Can anyone please help me find the Medicare reasonable & customary or RVU's. I am also looking for McGraw Hill and RBRVS (Resource Based Relative Value Scale)
Reducing Risk of HPV-Related Oral Cancers Question How can you reduce the risk of HPV related oral cancers? Answer Carolyn Vachani, RN, MSN, AOCN, OncoLink Nurse Educator, responds: That is a great question - you cannot protect yourself 100% but this previous answer talks about prevention using dental dams. Answer Gloria DiLullo, MSN, CRNP, OncoLink Content Specialist, adds: While
Chemotherapy Before or After Surgery Question Why did my friend get chemo before her surgery and I am supposed to get it afterwards? Answer Brian Czerniecki, MD, Breast , responds: We give chemotherapy prior to surgery to attempt to improve breast conservation surgery. You may or may not need chemotherapy after breast cancer depending on tumor size node status and receptor type
Chemotherapy Resistance Question Why do chemotherapy drugs stop working or need a period of time before they can be used again? Answer James Stevenson, MD, Medical Oncologist, responds: Cancer cells can find ways to become resistant to chemotherapy through different mechanisms. This is an intensive area of research. Specific resistance mechanisms (such as a gene
Chemotherapy and Radiotherapy vs. Surgery Question Yesterday, my father was diagnosed with adenocarcinoma type of non-small cell lung cancer. A tumor the size of a lemon was found on his right lung and found to have spread to his lymph nodes. He will be receiving more tests next week to determine if has spread to his brain. The doctor recommends starting chemotherapy twice a week, every
Does celecoxib boost the efficiency of chemotherapy? Question I read an article recently online that reported that celecoxib (Celebrex), a drug for arthritis, could boost the efficiency of chemotherapy. Would you recommend taking this drug along with chemotherapy even though the effects are still be investigated? Answer Barbara Campling, MD, Medical Oncologist, responds: Your question is a very
Flu Shot on Chemotherapy? Question I have lung cancer and am getting chemotherapy. Can/should I get a flu shot? Answer Susie Stonehouse-Lee, MSN, CRNP, Nurse Practitioner at Penn Medicine, responds: Patients receiving chemotherapy should receive a flu shot. Compromise to the immune system, as chemotherapy may due by decreasing your blood counts, puts you in a higher risk
Neuropathy Due to Chemotherapy Question I have neuropathy in my feet from my chemo. Is there anything to help with this? Answer Christina Bach, MSW, LCSW, OSW-C, Oncology Social Worker at Penn Medicine, responds: Neuropathy can really impact quality of life during and after certain types of chemotherapy treatments. The symptoms of neuropathy often improve, as patients are
Alternatives to Chemotherapy Question Our English Mastiff was very recently diagnosed with lymphoma and started on prednisone. I'm looking for alternatives to chemotherapy and wondering if there are any successful alternatives? I've also read that a diet free of grains may slow the cancer, is this accurate? what are the panel's thoughts on the Budwig diet or flax oil/cottage
Do Cats Lose Hair from Chemotherapy? Question Will my cat loose her hair from chemotherapy? Erika Krick, VMD, DACVIM Veterinary Medical Oncologist, University of Pennsylvania, responds: Answer Cats often lose their whiskers from chemotherapy, and we don't usually see any problems as a result. In addition, cats that are receiving chemotherapy can lose some of their coarse guard
Side Effects of Chemotherapy in Animals Question What side effects could I expect my dog to have from chemotherapy? When do they start and how long will they last? Are there medications to treat these or make them not as bad? Erika Krick, VMD, DACVIM Veterinary Medical Oncologist, University of Pennsylvania, responds: Answer The most common side effects of chemotherapy in dogs
Chemotherapy and Pharyngeal Cancer Question Is it safe to go to a dentist when I am getting radiation or chemotherapy for pharyngeal cancer? Will my dentist know what to do or even want to see me? Answer Alexander Lin, MD, Radiation Oncologist at Penn Medicine, responds: We recommend seeing a dentist prior to starting chemotherapy and radiation. The known side effects of
Chemotherapy and Radiation at the Same Time for Laryngeal Cancer Question I have to have chemotherapy and radiation at the same time for laryngeal cancer. Why do them at the same time (seems like it will be pretty hard) and why is this done before my surgery? Answer Alexander Lin, MD, Radiation Oncologist at Penn Medicine, responds: A large study has shown that chemotherapy and radiation, given at the same
Diabetes and Indigestion while Undergoing Chemotherapy and Radiation Therapy My 87-year-old Dad was just diagnosed with bladder cancer. He has indigestion every day now, even though he is on a low fat diet. He is also a recovering stroke patient, with hypertension and insulin diabetes. He starts chemotherapy and radiation soon. How will side effects of chemotherapy and radiation therapy affect his diabetes
Dietary recommendations for patients receiving chemotherapy Could you please send me some information on Chemotherapy & Diet? I believe that you have to have a special diet. Thank you Maggie Hampshire RN, BSN, OCN OncoLink's Managing editor replies: Chemotherapy does have an effect on a patients dietary intake. Someof the drugs given during the course of
Herbal supplements while on chemotherapy Can you take any type of herbal supplements while on chemotherapy? Is it okay to take Moducare through chemotherapy? My daughter is 23 years old and is taking chemotherapy for Hodgkin's disease. Ellen Sweeney, RD, Clinical Nutrition Specialist at the Abramson Cancer Center of the University of Pennsylvania responds;
Grapeseed during chemotherapy Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," I am considering taking grapeseed during chemotherapy. Are there studies that show whether the antioxidants in grape seed are beneficial in my situation? Thank you, any help or direction would be appreciated. Katrina Claghorn, MS, RD, registered dietitian at the Abramson Cancer
Antioxidants during chemotherapy Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," My wife is set to begin chemotherapy treatment. We are working with a nutritional advisor. We will be following his 10-step program, which advocates exercise, low fat high fiber diet, meditation, and vitamin and mineral supplements. He is advocating continuing to use the vitamins during chemo because there
Chron's disease and Chemotherapy Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," How might chemotherapy affect crohns disease? Do you have any special dietary recommendations for a patient with chrons? Thank you. Ellen Sweeney, RD, registered dietitian at the Abramson Cancer Center of the University of Pennsylvania, responds: As far as Crohn's disease and cancer
Dietary suggestions for diarrhea during chemotherapy Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," My father is 85 and is has stage IV colon cancer. He is currently undergoing chemotherapy and one of his biggest problems is diarrhea. My mother needs recipes that are easy to fix. Can you help? Katrina Claghorn, MS, RD, Registered Dietitian at the Abramson Cancer Center of the University of Pennsylvania,
Weight loss during chemotherapy Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," Due to severe arthritis in my knees I am overweight at 5'5"and 185 lbs. I recently had a mastectomy. I am about to begin chemotherapy. I need a diet for energy and replacement of vitamins and minerals, etc. Katrina Claghorn, MS, RD, Registered Dietitian at the Abramson Cancer Center of the University of
Neuropathic Pain After Chemotherapy Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," I am a male 36 years old I have ended my CHOP chemotherapy for Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma. About two weeks after my chemotherapy ended and continuing to date, I have been suffering severe leg pain in both legs. The pain is from my upper thighs to my feet. It is a consistent deep bone pain with occasional sharp stabbing
Long-Term Effects of Chemotherapy and Radiation Treatments Dear Editors, I have been to many, web sites and libraries. I am not having any luck. I hope I will find my answer with you! I have had breast cancer. I have had a lumpectomy, chemotherapy & radiation therapy. I am trying to find is information on the long term effects from chemotherapy and radiation. Will my breast return to
Is grapefruit contraindicated during chemotherapy? Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," I am wondering if you clear up the mystery surrounding the contraindicated use of grapefruit/and or juice during chemotherapy? Katrina Claghorn, MS, RD, Registered Dietitian at the Abramson Cancer Center of the University of Pennsylvania, responds:Grapefruit can block the activity of an enzyme in the intestine
Improving white blood cell count during chemotherapy Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," My wife has had surgery for Colon cancer and a Liver resection. Now the cancer has spread to her lungs. She has begun a new treatment, given through a porta-cath, with 5-FU and irinotecan. Blood tests showed very low white blood cell counts and the treatment was stopped. Is there any thing she can take or do to
Does chemotherapy make you toxic? Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," I am receiving chemotherapy and some of my friends are avoiding me because they say I am toxic. Is that true? Carolyn Vachani RN, MSN, AOCN, OncoLink's Medical Correspondent, responds:You cannot get toxic from your chemotherapy treatments, nor can you expose people to the chemotherapy by being near them. Many
Metallic taste after chemotherapy Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," The most difficult side effect of chemotherapy so far has been the metallic taste in my mouth. Nothing seems to help do you have any ideas? Carolyn Vachani RN, MSN, AOCN, OncoLink's Medical Correspondent, responds:The metallic taste, or other taste changes are quite common during cancer treatment. I can give
Chemotherapy and diabetic patients Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," I have a friend just diagnosed with ovarian cancer. She is a childhood diabetic. How does chemotherapy effect diabetic patients? Christina S. Chu, MD, Assistant Professor of the Division of Gynecologic Oncology at the University of Pennsylvania Health System, responds:In general, chemotherapy does not affect
Safe handling of bodily fluids after chemotherapy Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," After chemotherapy treatment, are there recommendations for safe handling of patient secretions, urine, etc for when they return home? Thanks. Carolyn Vachani RN, MSN, AOCN, OncoLink's Medical Correspondent, responds:Thanks for your question. At the University of Pennsylvania Medical Center we do not give
Exposure to environmental tobacco smoke during chemotherapy Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," I have a friend who is undergoing chemotherapy for breast cancer following a mastectomy. I have a problem with her family's continued smoking in the home and car with her. I have been looking for some research that I could show them demonstrating that passive smoke is harmful to chemotherapy patients. Can you point
Chemotherapy and osteoporosis Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," I had lung cancer in my left lung in 1987, and was treated with chemo and radiation for a year. I recovered and am doing great. I have been wondering: I thought I had heard that all the chemo and radiation can age your bones by about 10 years?? I would like to know what you think.Linda Jacobs, PhD, CRNP, AOCN, BC,
Flu Shots While on Chemotherapy Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," My wife has metastasis in the bones after she had breast cancer. Now she is taking Xeloda. I would like to know if she can have a flu injection while taking Xeloda?Carolyn Vachani RN, MSN, AOCN, OncoLink's Medical Correspondent, responds:We do suggest that our patients receive the flu shot, but to schedule the shot
Losing Fingernails After Chemotherapy Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," My sister has just finished all her chemotherapy and radiation treatments for breast cancer. Her fingernails are turning dark and separating from the bed. Is there anything she can do to help this situation? Will any creams or other products help to strengthen the nails? Carolyn Vachani RN, MSN, AOCN, OncoLink's
Birth Defects While on Chemotherapy Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," concern is about the likelihood of my getting pregnant while he's on chemo. We are certainly not planning on it, and I have been on the pill for 10 years, but what are the chances we would have an accident? And what kind of birth defects are expected? The drug guides don't really get that specific. Thank you! Vicki
Heart Damage and Chemotherapy Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," My father was recently diagnosed with synovial sarcoma in the lining of the lung. It was suggested that he undergo chemo therapy treatment with Doxil®. He's an older man with a heart condition, and based on what I read, I'm concerned about the cardiac ramifications. Carolyn Vachani RN, MSN, AOCN, OncoLink's
Coloring Hair After Chemotherapy Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," My hair is starting to grow back after chemotherapy and radiation treatments. I finished radiation a month ago and want to color my hair. Is that okay? Carolyn Vachani RN, MSN, AOCN, OncoLink's Nurse Educator, responds:Although I could not find any actual, published guidelines, I queried a few of my colleagues and
Reimmunization after Chemotherapy Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," My daughter is almost 16 years old. She was diagnosed with Hodgkin's lymphoma with spine metastases. She has 5 sessions of local radiotherapy and will finish her 6th cycle (12th session) of chemotherapy shortly. I wondered if the chemotherapy negates all or any of the immunizations she has had to date, such as Hep
Predict Response to Chemotherapy? Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," I was diagnosed with Stage IIIC ovarian cancer in Nov. 2005. I had a hysterectomy and tumor debulking at that time. I have most recently been on IV Taxol and Carboplatin chemotherapy, and have responded best to this combination. What is the best predictable factor that will indicate how one person will respond to a
Arthritis and Chemotherapy Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," I'm a 26-year-old female diagnosed with Hodgkin's Lymphoma (Nodular Sclerosis type, stage IIIB) in March of 2006, and have been receiving 6 cycles of ABVD chemotherapy. I've been experiencing a lot of bone pain, and now a lot of joint pain. The pain in my hands even prevents me from holding a phone or menu at times.
Chemotherapy Exposure During Pregnancy Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," I am an oncology nurse in Seattle and am 21 weeks pregnant. I recently had a skin exposure to 5FU and was wondering about the implications of that. It was approx 5ccs and I washed the affected area well within 5 minutes. What concerns should I have? Christina S. Chu, MD, Assistant Professor of the Division of
Topical Chemotherapy Precautions Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," Recently I was treated to eradicate an intraepithelial lesion, grade I, by means of a LEEP procedure. Now I've been through two sessions of local chemotherapy (cream) in the vagina. The doctor says that because of the shape of the vagina, he cannot be sure if other lesions exist in this area that were not eradicated
Dose Dense Chemotherapy for Lymphoma Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," I have heard that giving CHOP chemotherapy every 2 weeks may be more effective than every 3 weeks (the standard). Can you provide any details? Babis (Charalambos) Andreadis, MD, Assistant Professor in Medicine in the Division of Hematology/Oncology at the Abramson Cancer Center and an Associate Scholar in the
Avastin Before or After Chemotherapy Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," Is there a therapeutic advantage to giving Avastin first or last in a regimen? Bruce Giantonio, MD, Assistant Professor of Medicine in the Hematology-Oncology Division at the University of Pennsylvania, responds:I am not aware of any clinical data that argues for one over the other, i.e. for a benefit to giving it
Pregnancy While on Chemotherapy Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," My sister is two months pregnant, and conceived about one month after her husband had chemotherapy for testicular cancer. He had the affected testicle removed and has only had one chemotherapy treatment with Carboplatin. She is now concerned about the normal development of the fetus. Some doctors have advised her
Crushing Chemotherapy Pills Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," I had a gastric bypass banding a few years ago. I now have colon cancer and am scheduled to start chemotherapy with Xeloda, an oral chemotherapy. I have a lot of trouble swallowing pills since the banding. Can I crush the pills? Michael Vozniak, PharmD, BCOP, Hematology/Oncology Clinical Pharmacy Specialist,
Fertility During Chemotherapy Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," Can a patient receiving chemotherapy for breast cancer get pregnant?Carolyn Vachani RN, MSN, AOCN, OncoLink's Nurse Educator, responds:A woman receiving treatment for breast cancer who was not menopausal (in other words, who is still premenopausal) before starting treatment can still get pregnant on therapy. This
Order of Chemotherapy Administration Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," I am a 4th-year pharmacy student working on a project for a chemotherapy pharmacist. We are looking for a chart that shows what order chemotherapy agents should be administered. Do you have any advice/resources for us? Michael Vozniak, PharmD, BCOP, Hematology/Oncology Clinical Pharmacy Specialist, responds:I think
Number of Chemotherapy Cycles Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," I was diagnosed with colon cancer and am receiving Folfox chemotherapy. How many cycles of chemotherapy will I get? Gloria DiLullo, MSN, CRNP, OncoLink Medical Oncology Educational Content Specialist, responds: Thank you for your question, Sir. The number of chemotherapy cycles depends on the stage of the
Sexual Activity During Chemotherapy Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," I was diagnosed with colon cancer and am receiving Folfox chemotherapy. Can I have sexual relations with my wife? She is avoiding me with fear . What are the restrictions on sexual activity during treatment? Gloria DiLullo, MSN, CRNP, OncoLink Medical Oncology Educational Content Specialist, responds: In
Weight Gain After Chemotherapy Dear OncoLink "Ask the Experts," My sister was diagnosed with breast cancer about a year ago. She had the chemotherapy, radiation, stem cell transplant and mastectomy done. Her doctors are very optimistic about her outcome. Now she is now living her normal life. She is going through chemotherapy induced menopause. The only problem
Timing of Radiation and Chemotherapy with Breast Cancer Dear OncoLink "Ask the Experts," In patients with node negative breast cancer undergoing radiation therapy after lumpectomy, what is the best timing for radiation therapy with respect to chemotherapy (such as eight 3 week cycles of CMF)? The optimal timing of radiation therapy and chemotherapy under such circumstances
Chemotherapy Before Surgery for Breast Cancer Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," My mother has been diagnosed with stage 3-breast cancer. They are telling her that they want her to do chemotherapy before the surgery to remove her breast. Can you please explain to me why they would be doing this? Kevin R. Fox, MD, Assistant Director, Clinical Affairs and Associate Professor of
Skipping the last chemotherapy cycle Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," I have breast cancer and am receiving adjuvant chemotherapy. I have been through 5 cycles and feel that I simply cannot take the last one. I am following up with radiation. There is no data on 5 vs.6 cycles. Anything enlightening you might be able to add? Barbara Campling, MD, Medical Oncologist at the
Radiation Timing after Chemotherapy Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," My wife has completed breast cancer treatment, specifically surgery and chemotherapy. My question is, after chemotherapy, how soon should radiation therapy start? We got an appointment with the radiation oncologist, and the total time gap is almost 6 to 7weeks - is this ok? Terry Styles, MD, Assistant Professor of
I may need chemotherapy for my breast cancer. Can I still have breast implants? Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," I may need chemotherapy for my breast cancer. Can I still have breast implants?Rachel McKenna, MSN, CRNP, Nurse Practitioner in the Division of Plastic Surgery at the University of Pennsylvania Hospital, responds:Women who need post mastectomy chemotherapy are still candidates for implants. Sometimes we need to
Treatment Options After Failed Chemotherapy Dear OncoLink "Ask the Experts," What can be done for a 60-year-old male with stage IV colon cancer with metastases to the liver and extra-hepatic disease? Multiple regimens of chemotherapy have failed. The patient currently has an elevated bilirubin and is receiving 5-FU via portable IV pump. Thank you, B.S.
Chemotherapy for Mucinous Adenocarcinoma of the Colon Dear OncoLink "Ask the Experts," I was wondering what you could tell me about Mucinous Adenocarcinoma of the colon and a new treatment using CPT11-5FU-LUKOVORAN? Thanks, R.L. James P. Stevenson, MD, Assistant Professor of Medicine in the Hematology/Oncology Division of the University of Pennsylvania School of
Chemotherapy and Follow Up After B2 Colon Cancer Dear OncoLink "Ask the Experts," I was diagnosed with stage II colon cancer in September 2000 at age 39. 21 lymph nodes were removed, all negative. No apparent spread. Angiolymphatic invasion present; B2 tumor. Bowel resection surgery performed. I am just completing 6 rounds of 5FU & Leucovorin. Is there any other treatment available
What are the Side Effects of Chemotherapy for Colon Cancer? Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," What are the Side Effects of Chemotherapy for Colon Cancer? Carolyn Vachani, MSN, RN, AOCN, OncoLink's Clinical Trials Coordinator, responds: Chemotherapy kills cells that divide rapidly. Unfortunately, this includes both good cells (hair follicles, mucosa of mouth and GI tract, red and white
Why do I need chemotherapy after my bowel resection? Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," Why do I need chemotherapy after my bowel resection? Carolyn Vachani, MSN, RN, AOCN, OncoLink's Clinical Trials Coordinator, responds: The answer to this question is dependent on the stage of the cancer. In stage II or III colon cancer, chemotherapy after surgery, also called adjuvant
Radiation and chemotherapy at the same time Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," Why do I need to have radiation and chemotherapy at the same time? Richard Whittington, MD, Associate Professor of Radiation Oncology at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, responds: Chemotherapy blocks many of the repair activities of tumor cells without having the same effect on
Abnormal Pap test after Chemotherapy or Radiation Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," I read that chemotherapy can cause a Pap smear to be abnormal. How long should I wait to get a Pap after my last chemotherapy treatment for breast cancer (AC-T)? Could radiation have an affect also? Christina S. Chu, MD, Assistant Professor of the Division of Gynecologic Oncology at the University of Pennsylvania
Chemotherapy after Whole Abdominal Radiation for Endometrial Cancer Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," My partner has endometrial cancer - stage IIIA. She had a radical hysterectomy and has now completed whole abdominal and pelvic radiation. She is scheduled to have 3 rounds of brachytherapy starting next week. My question is that her radiation oncologist has suggested chemotherapy also. I know this is more
Low Dose Chemotherapy with External Radiation Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," I recently received surgery to remove a 6” tumor, which appeared 3 years after surgery for a stage 1 endometrial cancer. Following this surgery, I received 3 chemotherapy treatments using taxol and carboplatin. I am now preparing to undergo external radiation, and my radiologist is recommending that I do a
The most commonly used chemotherapy treatment for ovarian cancer Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," My wife's mother will begin chemotherapy for ovarian cancer this Thursday and is petrified of the side effects. Her oncologist is treating her every week with carboplatin and paclitaxel and has told her this will reduce the expected side effects due to the lower more frequent concentrations. My question is should
Chemotherapy After Debulking Surgery Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," Following debulking surgery for advanced ovarian cancer, how soon should chemotherapy be commenced? Does early commencement compromise wound healing? Christina S. Chu, MD, Assistant Professor of the Division of Gynecologic Oncology at the University of Pennsylvania Health System, responds:Following extensive
Dental work during chemotherapy Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," Can a patient receiving chemotherapy have much-needed dental work?Kendra Schaefer, DMD, Assistant Professor in the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Division of Prosthodontics at the University of Pennsylvania, responds:Quite simply, the answer is yes, when timed correctly. The dentist should call the
Speech and Memory Problems while on a Long-term Chemotherapy Dear OncoLink "Ask the Experts," My mother has received chemotherapy for acute lymphatic leukemia for the past 8-9 years. Recently she began to have problems with her speech. Lately, she cannot find the right word(s) even though she may know what she wants to say in her mind. This is very frustrating to her. She read something
Maintenance Chemotherapy for Lung Cancer Question My sister's doctor told her she would be getting "maintenance chemo." Can you explain what that means? I have tried searching the web, but I cannot find anything about it. Answer Tracey Evans, MD, Medical Oncologist at Penn Medicine, responds: Maintenance therapy is therapy given after the initial cycles of chemotherapy to keep the cancer
Chemotherapy Pills Versus Intravenous (IV) Question Why are some lung cancer patients able to take chemo pills, but I have to get it in my veins? Is one kind better than the other? Answer Suzanne Walker CRNP, MSN, AOCN, Nurse Practitioner for Thoracic Malignancies at Penn Medicine responds: Some lung cancer patients are able to take a chemotherapy pill because they have a specific
Hodgkin's Disease and Chemotherapy Dear OncoLink "Ask the Experts," My husband was recently diagnosed with lymphocyte predominant Hodgkin's Disease (nodular type) and is presently undergoing ABVD chemotherapy treatment prior to radiation therapy. In trying to learn as much as possible about this I am wading through some confusing information. Please send information on
Risk of abnormalities in pregnancies conceived after chemotherapy Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," My partner has been successfully treated for Hodgkin's disease. He his 27 years old and his treatment ended about 3 years ago. We are thinking about having children together. He tells me that after his treatment ended they checked his sperm count and there were no problems. However can you please tell me whether
Late Effects of Chemotherapy After Vaginal Cancer Dear OncoLink "Ask the Experts," My daughter had vaginal cancer at the age of 17 months. We have been clean of cancer for ten years but having a shortness of breath that doctors cannot explain. What are the late effects of bleomycin, etoposide and cisplatin? Thank you Anna Meadows, MD, pediatric oncologist at
Effects of Chemotherapy on a Child's Intellectual Development I am a clinical psychologist. I am seeing a child in play therapy who has received treatment for leukemia since the age of 4 years. She is now seven (treatment has been effective and stopped) and completing grade 1. Her teachers are concerned with her academic progress. On psychological tests her scores show a low I.Q. However, I am
Chemotherapy for Prostate Cancer Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," I have prostate cancer that has progressed on hormone therapy. My doctor wishes to start chemotherapy. I know many men with prostate cancer and I have never heard of them receiving chemotherapy. What can you tell me about chemotherapy for prostate cancer?Carolyn Vachani RN, MSN, AOCN, OncoLink's Nurse Educator,
Who should I see about chemotherapy for my prostate cancer? Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," Who should I see about chemotherapy for my prostate cancer?Carolyn Vachani RN, MSN, AOCN, OncoLink's Nurse Educator, responds:Chemotherapy is managed by a doctor called a medical oncologist. These doctors are trained in the administration of chemotherapy and managing of related side effects. You can find a medical
Modifying a Dog's Chemotherapy Protocol Dear OncoLink "Ask the Experts," I wonder what current chemotherapy protocol information is available for canine lymphoma. My dog was diagnosed in March 1999 and put on a chemotherapy protocol. Are there modifications, which can be made to her protocol to account for both her tolerance of the drug and my financial abilities?
Human Pregnancy and Canine Chemotherapy Treatment Dear OncoLink "Ask the Experts," Can chemotherapy given to a dog with lymphoma cause any problems to a human female owner who is pregnant? I have heard there could be toxins in the body fluids of the dog during treatment that can cause harm to a baby? This sounds crazy to me. Have you ever heard of such a thing?
Chemotherapy and Metastasis to the Lungs Dear OncoLink "Ask the Experts," My 14-year-old Walker Hound has a leg tumor that was diagnosed as an undifferentiated sarcoma in June. It had already metastasized to his lungs. He's been undergoing chemo for it since then. I noticed in your FAQ that chemo isn't recommended for metastatic cancers which have spread to the lungs. What
Intracavitary Chemotherapy Dear OncoLink "Ask the Experts," I recently joined an on-line canine cancer "support group", after our dog was diagnosed with hemangiosarcoma. Someone in the group posted that University of Pennsylvania had done a study on intercavity chemotherapy as a treatment for hemangiosarcoma. I can't find it. It was supposed to be a very new
Veterinary Chemotherapy precautions Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," My wife is pregnant with our second child, and she is in her second trimester. Our Golden Retriever is starting chemotherapy on Friday. The vet advised my wife to "avoid metabolites" as they could be teratogenic due to the metabolized chemotherapeutic agents in them. Can you give us some concrete advice on
Budget chemotherapy for mast cell tumor in dogs Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," I foster rescued dogs for a small shelter here in Manhattan. 3 yrs ago, an elderly neighbor adopted a wonderful lab mix male thru me, which has just been diagnosed with mast cell cancer (III). She's quite impoverished and I'm trying to help her with the treatment of her sweet dog. I've had the tumor removed
Palliative Chemotherapy for Liposarcoma in Dogs Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," My Irish Wolfhound was diagnosed a little over a year ago (at age 3) with a very large, very invasive liposarcoma in the left lumbar region, effacing the musculature in this region, eating into several lumbar vertebrae and extending into the abdominal region. She received palliative radiation a year ago and was
Exposure of Other Pets to Chemotherapy Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," My 5-year-old Border Collie/Lab mix Annie was recently diagnosed with stage III lymphoma. We started chemotherapy treatments with Asparaginase (Elspar), Prednisone, and Vincristine, followed by 4 days of Cytoxan and 6 daily doses of Prednisone, which will eventually scale back to once every other day. So far Annie
Use of Anti-oxidants with Chemotherapy in Pets Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," Would you please comment on the administration of antioxidants (vitamins A, C, E) as supplementation to doxorubicin chemotherapy for canine mammary gland tumors, namely the ranges of allowed doses and routes of administration? Karin Sorenmo, VMD, Director of the Medical Oncology division at The Ryan Veterinary
Financial Issues Pertaining to Chemotherapy and Testicular Cancer Dear OncoLink "Ask the Experts," I am currently entering chemotherapy for early Stage III testicular cancer. There will be some days where I will have to take a private service to and from therapy sessions. I would like to know if there is any reimbursement programs or services available for transportation? My insurance carrier
Pregnancy after Chemotherapy Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," My husband is 30 years old and was diagnosed with testicular cancer (stage II, 100% embryonal carcinoma). He immediately had surgery and chemotherapy (BEP for 3 cycles). His last chemo treatment was about 8 months ago. Prior to the cancer, my husband and I had been trying to start a family. We would really like to
Exercise During Chemotherapy Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," I saw a story on the news about something called heat shock protein. They said that stress (including strenuous exercise) the day before chemotherapy could protect cancer cells from chemotherapy. Is there any truth to a danger to exercising the day before chemo treatment? Kathryn Schmitz, PhD, MPH, cancer
Neuropathy During Chemotherapy Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," Is there medicine for neuropathy (nerve damage during chemo)? I am starting to have some in my thumb and index finger and don't want to interrupt chemo because of it. Gloria DiLullo, MSN, CRNP, OncoLink Medical Oncology Educational Content Specialist, responds: Yes, there are some medications that can help
Caregiver Exposure to Chemotherapy Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," My mom has cancer and I just want to know if there are any effects of chemotherapy agents to us caregivers? Thank you.Jill Stopfer, MS, CGC, Certified Genetic Counselor, responds:Gloria DiLullo, MSN, CRNP, OncoLink Medical Oncology Educational Content Specialist, responds: As more and more chemotherapy is given in
Listening to Music during Chemotherapy Just wondering if listening to music during chemo infusions is considered music therapy - or does it need to be something formal? Tony Meadows PhD MT-BC FAMI LPC is Director of Music Therapy at Immaculata University and Music Therapist at the Joan Karnell Cancer Center at Pennsylvania Hospital, responds: Using music during chemo is, for
Nutrition and Chemotherapy after Gastric Bypass Surgery Question I had gastric bypass surgery about 5 years ago. Now I am about to start treatment for colon cancer with chemo. I am really worried about how to manage nutrition with this combination. Any advice appreciated! Answer Katrina Claghorn, Registered Dietician at Penn Medicine, responds: Managing your nutritional status during treatment may
Safety With Oral Chemotherapy Medication Question I was given an oral chemotherapy to take at home. What should I know about safety regarding having a medication like this at home? Gloria DiLullo, Oncology Nurse Practitioner at Penn Medicine responds: Many people receive this type of chemotherapy at home and there are some important things you should know. We have some great
The Effects of Chemotherapy and Radiation Therapy Given Together Question My doctor wants me to take chemo and radiation at the same time. Won't this make me too sick? Answer Ursina Teitelbaum, MD, Medical Oncologist at Penn Medicine responds: When we deliver chemo-radiotherapy, the chemotherapy is dosed lower than we treat with chemotherapy alone. My patients have very few side effects attributable to the
Chemotherapy Safety at Home Question I am taking chemotherapy (5-FU) via a pump connected to my port at home. What should I know about safety regarding having chemotherapy at home? Answer Gloria DiLullo, Oncology Nurse Practitioner at Penn Medicine responds: Many people receive this type of chemotherapy at home. Most pumps are pretty sophisticated and will alarm to let
Thyroid Cancer Treatment After RAI Question What happens after my cancer stops responding to radioactive iodine? Answer Marcia Brose, MD, Director of Thyroid Cancer Therapeutics Program at Penn Medicine responds, There are many new agents in clinical trials and some that might be available outside of clinical trials. In the last 5 years, many patients have had successful
Small Cell Carcinoma Question I am trying to find information on small cell carcinoma. I was diagnosed recently with small cell carcinoma and am being treated with chemotherapy. I am a 44 yo male, non-smoker with no history of cancer in my family. CT's and a PET/CT did not find where the tumor came from before spreading to my lymph nodes. I was diagnosed with this
Chemo and Radiation Given Together Question Why can’t I get my radiation while I am getting my chemo? Why do I have to wait until I finish chemo? Answer Susie Lee, CRNP, Nurse Practitioner with Penn Medicine’s Lung Cancer Team, responds: In some instances, and it may depend on the stage of your lung cancer, it is recommended to give chemotherapy concurrently (at the same time)
Small Cell Lung Cancer Question What is the difference between small cell and non-small cell lung cancer? Are they treated the same way? How do I know which one I have? Answer Charu Aggarwal, MD, MPH, Medical Oncologist at Penn Medicine, responds: Small cell cancer of the lung is a subtype of lung cancer, which is different from non-small cell lung cancer. Non-small
How Much Chemo is Given? Question How much chemotherapy can a person do. I know sometimes the treatment has to be done more than once. Thank you. Answer Susie Lee, CRNP, Nurse Practitioner with Penn Medicine’s Lung Cancer Team, responds: This depends on the type of chemotherapy being administered. Some chemotherapy agents have a limited dose or number of cycles that