Brain Necrosis
Radiation is a powerful weapon against cancer cells, but sometimes it kills healthy brain tissue as well, resulting in a severe side effect called radiation necrosis. Necrosis can cause headaches, seizures, or even death.
Radiation necrosis is a focal structural lesion that usually occurs at the original tumor site. It is a potential long-term central nervous system complication of radiotherapy.
Regular follow-up treatment is extremely important after treatment for a brain tumor. Besides regular physical and neurological exams, Norman need periodic magnetic resonance (MRI)or computed tomography (CT)and regular blood test.
On March 1st, Norman had his 1st MRI check up. There was a lesion measuring 1.9cm by 1.2 cm seen on the x-ray. I was instantly petrified! It could be reoccurrence of the glioblastoma or brain necrotic cells! There was a moderately big patch of Oedema (Water) around the tumor site also.
On 6th march, we saw Dr Lee F.C. at Sunway Hospital. He said it was a residual tumor! As t is impossible to remove 100% of the tumor due to its infiltrative character, there is bound to be some tumor left in the brain. We breath a big sigh of relieve! The odema was also due to the Radiation. Norman now needs to go back on steroids, dexamethazone 2mg twice daily for 2 weeks.
For the past few weeks, Norman have been complaining that he feels cold most of the time esp in an air con room. His pulse rate is exceptionally low at about 50 beats per minute! Inactive thyroid? Well, to be on the safe side, he is put on thyroxine to activate his thyroid for 2 weeks. I really hate this chain of medication that he has to swallow daily.
Norman’s 2nd cycle of chemo starts on the 19th of march. The routine round of blood test will be done first to check his lymphocyte and platelets level. Poor Norman! Sob!
The next MRI will be about 3 months time. If the lesion increases in size, an MRS will need to be done. Will tell you all about MRS later.
Quote: Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me;your rod and staff, they comfort me. Psalm23:4
