MRI, fits, brain edema

On 13th August,2009 Norman had MRI of the brain at Sunway medical center. He have been having difficulty with his speech lately but can still manage to carry on a conversation slowly. The scan still shows a tumor about 4cm by 3.5cm with massive edema and lots of necrotic tissue. The Dr was not so worried and send us home with more fits medication.
2 days ago, Norman finds that his speech was not only slow but slurred as well. The symptoms of the disease is progressing- anger, aggression, weakness on one side( he was not able to hold a spoon) and extreme difficulty to say anything! It is all so terrifying. I am trying to keep my hope up but the fears keep creeping in. Again and again my faith have been tested! My wonderful children have been very supportive and we pray constantly for a miracle from God.
At this point, I want to thank all our friends who have upkeep us with your fervent prayers. Knowing you all are there for us have been a great help. Thank you.

Dorothy

Brain edema

On the 3oth Dec 2007 Norman had a brain scan done at HUKM. The report was bad. The previously seen enhancing lesion in the left parietal lobe measure 2.2cm x 2.1cm x 3.4cm(previously 1.4 x 1.5 x 2.1) showing significant increase in size. The edema has also worsen compare to the previous scan on 13th sept 2007.However the report says that there is no evidence of tumor recurrence. This could represent just an enlarging area of radiation necrosis. We consulted both doctors, Dr Lee Foo Chieng(neuro surgeon) and Dr Foo Yoke Ching(oncologist). We were told to repeat another scan after cny. Then only we will decide on the next step of treatment. However the brain edema was causing speech problems and norman need to take steriods.

Brain Edema
Brain edema (swelling) is a common occurrence in brain tumor patients. The swelling is caused by the accumulation of fluids in the tissue around the tumor. This exerts pressure on the brain that can lead to additional symptoms including headaches, seizures, and focal neurological deficits. Brain edema may initially be due to the tumor itself or it may occur as a result of treatment (craniotomy or radiation therapy).

The first-line treatment for brain edema is the administration of steroids. The most commonly used steroids for brain edema are prednisone and dexamethasone (Decadron). Patients who are given steroids must be carefully monitored for side-effects which may include:

weight gain
upset stomach
muscle weakness
increased susceptibility to infections
mood swings
insomnia
increased blood sugar levels - particularly dangerous in diabetics

So far, Norman did put on some weight(from gorging on new year goodies!), feels bloated all the time and worse of all,gets irritated easily(mood swings). Sob!