I recently completed my checkup #2 at MD Anderson. Same tests as before … blood tests, chest x-ray, and CT scan (abdomen/pelvis) … then met with both my liver surgeon/doctor and chemo doctor.
All good news again! All tests/results were negative for recurrent or metastatic cancer, no new masses or abnormalities found!
One of my liver function tests (BILIRUBIN) was somewhat elevated again and my chemo doctor prescribed medication (pills) to see if that will lower it some. Didn’t seem to be a big concern, though.
Next scheduled for blood tests in 2 months and then 1-2 months after that will be my usual checkup (#3 this time). They’re taking real good care of me at MDA and I continue to be impressed with all the doctors and staff there. I know I’ve got a long way to go but I have no doubt I’m getting the best possible care there as I continue my long journey to recovery!
I do have a rather odd liver, though, as a result of all this. The liver lies primarily on one’s right side, sort of below the right rib-cage area. It’s the largest gland organ, weighing about 3 lbs. After my liver resection in May 2004, my liver has now grown back basically to normal size.
However, due to how and where they had to cut my liver, mine has now grown back towards my middle and left side. But, the doctors say that happens sometimes after a liver resection … other body parts can move around and fill the open spot where the liver had been. Then, the “new” liver just grows back wherever it can. As long as everything is connected up the way it should be they said not to worry … so hey that works for me!
