CT Scan vs. MRI: Which is safer for those with cancer?

When I learned in January 2017 that my colon cancer had metastasized to my liver, my oncologist, Dr. G, suggested (in addition to 4 rounds of chemo, surgery, and up to 8 more rounds of chemo) a series of scans to monitor the status of my cancer. CT scans of my abdomen and lungs were immediately taken to determine the location of any tumor(s). One tumor was detected on my liver; no other tumors were seen.

Dr. G then referred me for a PET Scan. I'd never had a PET scan and knew nothing about the procedure or possible risks. I was still in a state of shock over my Stage IV-A metastatic diagnosis (and end-of-year death sentence if I did not submit to the chemo / surgery regimen). So, I compliantly agreed to the PET scan. There was a caveat, through. Badger Care (my insurance) would have to approve the scan. A week later I was told that Badger Care refused to pay for the scan because of its cost.

That's when I decided to do some research. What I discovered shocked and upset me!

Fighting Cancer in the Philippines

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This morning I received an e-mail from Mark, a colon cancer patient in the Philippines. His colon cancer is not going away, despite aggressive chemotherapy, surgery, and other procedures.  Just look at what this poor man has endured! Heartbreaking! He's worried, and asked for my advice. 

First, Mark's e-mail:

I was diagnosed with cancer last December 2015, Stage III-B. My CEA at that time was 8.7. I had surgery January 9, 2016. I underwent a very aggressive chemotheraphy twice a month intervals of every two weeks. I was given 5FU, Irenotican, Loucoverin, Oxaliplatin and a booster Avastin. I finished my session July 2016.

My CEA went down to 4.2. The result of my PET scan is very good as well. 

Fear of Death

I've been thinking about the fear that cancer invokes. Because once the diagnosis is in, once the cancer has been confirmed, once the Western medical community provides you with its diagnosis and statistics for survival, it is ultimately your decision how you will deal with your completely understandable and legitimate fears.

There is a lot to fear. Your life has just been turned upside down! Will you need surgery? Can you trust your doctor, or should you get a second opinion? Will your family and friends be able to "handle" the diagnosis? There are financial fears. There are logistical fears -- getting to and from doctor appointments, diagnostic tests, chemo sessions, and surgery. Are your "affairs" in order -- wills, trusts, bank accounts, and other assets? And the really BIG fear -- am I going to die?