the consultation visit. We'll get to watch a video, meet Dr. Fuss and learn how radiation therapy applies to my tumor. He'll explain my treatment options, the possible side effects of radiation and how they can be managed.
Surgery alters the size and placement of the tumor but it'll be at least a few more weeks before the surgical swelling is gone so they can do an accurate MRI. However since the pituitary hangs out beneath the brain it's helpful :) to be accurate with targeting.
The surgical team scheduled an MRI in February but this doctor will likely alter the time frame to best suit my treatment. I'm hoping for as soon as possible.
I'll need further appointments to get ready for radiation, the next one is called the Simulation visit.
Officially it's called an adenoma
You can Google Non-Functioning Pituitary Adenoma if you want detailed information but in a nutshell it’s a benign tumor in my pituitary gland.
Three times, it's grown to the point where it affected my optic nerves and pituitary function. Surgery was performed Feb. 2007 again in Feb. 2009 and yet again Nov. 11, 2010 to remove as much of it as possible.
My vision was preserved in each case however I've lost Growth Hormone production and am on thyroid medication to help those levels.
I had radiation after my last surgery. The risk is I could over time loose all pituitary function. The hope is it will slow or stop the persistent tumor's aggressive growth.
12/7/10
12/3/10
Radiation therapy
I confused my pituitary office manager when I called today about still waiting for an appointment with the "radiologist". A radiologist is the doctor who reviews MRI's and x-rays :) OOPS!
Once I explained what I meant she understood and transferred me to the radiation oncology department(still haven't a clue what's the proper reference to these kind of doctors). Moving right along I'll see Dr. Fuss click here for the radiation doctor's information on Dec. 9th at OHSU.
This is an initial visit. An MRI isn't scheduled at same time so few answers are likely but it's a start.
Once I explained what I meant she understood and transferred me to the radiation oncology department(still haven't a clue what's the proper reference to these kind of doctors). Moving right along I'll see Dr. Fuss click here for the radiation doctor's information on Dec. 9th at OHSU.
This is an initial visit. An MRI isn't scheduled at same time so few answers are likely but it's a start.
12/2/10
Still waiting
For my question about my cortisol stimulation results to be answered. "sigh"
And to hear from the radiologist's office about scheduling an office visit, a post op. MRI and hearing his recommendation as to what type of radiation I should go with. "heavy sigh"
Waiting isn't my strong suit.
And to hear from the radiologist's office about scheduling an office visit, a post op. MRI and hearing his recommendation as to what type of radiation I should go with. "heavy sigh"
Waiting isn't my strong suit.
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