Hi - Has anyone had success with RT retreatment stopping the progression of a nodule growth? I had RT here in America in December. I have a large nodule in my palm, and one on the bottom half of my pinky and ring finger, all pretty hard. I have some contracture on my ring finger. Although it didn't seem to be progressing, I went with RT, because I had severe tightness in the hand. It was hard to open it more than half way, without help (and pain). The RT definitely helped me with flexibility, as I was eventually able to fully open it. Unfortunately, soon after the RT, I noticed a small growth to the left of my palm nodule, which has continued to grow. During that time period, because of my increased flexibility, I was able to do a lot more typing at work, and maybe that increased activity, is responsible for the growth? I hope it wasn't the RT! In any event, I've read about some people having RT retreatment, but I somehow doubt my US doctor would do it, given the lack of data. Has anyone had success with retreament stopping the progression of developing nodule? Thanks very much. - Mark

mrl, in the scientific papers written by the German doctors, I have not seen any mention of retreatment using radiation, for the same hand or foot. There is mention of the possibility of a 'salvage' operation, meaning surgery, if necessary after the radiation.

I think it's just a matter of the side effects increasing in risk as you increase your lifetime dose, but I'm not sure.

Regarding the risk of cancer from RT treatment, does anyone actually know what the risk is? I.e., how many cases have occurred? Have any of the doctors kept track, and more importantly, are the doctors willing to release their data?

My doctor said he was/is willing to retreat my hand with RT if nodules reappear in the treated area.
I know that I would retreat the area and take the chance rather than let contracture occur.


Lori

Edited 05/08/13 23:53

Thanks for the info everyone! I'm going to make an appt with my doctor and see what he recommends.