RCVP

This morning was good news and very satisfying. Wednesday’s biopsy determined the “bulky disease” [the mass in my abdomen] to be low grade consistent with the lymphoma occupying other sites in my body. This diagnosis now opens the way for treatment. Often low grade B-cell lymphoma is left untreated, as its growth is so slow that it may not cause problems for a very long time if ever. Because of the bulky nature of the mass is my belly, however, there is a real danger of bowel obstruction and other complications. It was therefore determined that we would try to shrink the “tumor burden” I will enter the VA hospital at Fort Mylie on 19 June for 3 to 5 days for the first cycle of debulking chemotherapy. Because of the nature of the drugs being administered and the length of time the drips need to be in place, I have to be monitored carefully. There are numerous dangerous complications possible but unlikely. If all goes as planned I will be able to waltz out of there under my own steam and carry on with my life until the next cycle [generally they administer 4-8 cycles]. The drugs being administered [for those med-geeks out there] are Rituximab [Rituxan], Vincristine [Vinasar PSF], Cyclophosphamide [Procytox] and Prednisone [PredniSONE Intensol]. I have several monographs on these and the procedures, which I will read thoroughly and revisit in a subsequent posting. My attending physician during my treatment is Dr. John Gordan, a young “fellow” in the same program as Dr. Phillips. There was a bit of unfortunate news this morning; Dr. Phillips just got engaged!