As required by the clinical study I participated in, I undergo standard blood tests every 3 months and a PET scan every 6 months, each accompanied by an office visit with either Dr. Rajguru or one of the Nurse Practitioners (NP).
On 2/28/2024, I underwent my blood tests and PET scan. The results of the various blood tests all fell within the normal ranges. My platelet count was 172, well within the normal range of 150-425.
The PET scan showed no new or worsening disease, a result the radiologist noted as “No new or worsening disease.” Additionally, my Deauville score dropped to 2, indicating positive progress.
During my telehealth visit with Dr. Rajguru, we discussed the results, which were positive, confirming that I remain in full remission.
Between my 30-day post-treatment testing and this 6-month testing, I underwent a planned 10-year follow-up colonoscopy, which yielded negative results. I also had a dermatologist exam, as chemotherapy can be tough on the skin. During the exam, the dermatologist found a small area of basal cell carcinoma on my back. This is not likely from the chemotherapy. Basal cell carcinoma is the most common form of skin cancer and highly treatable. The affected area was promptly removed, and subsequent testing showed no cancer cells present.
I inquired about the need for a colonoscopy given the negative PET scan results. I was informed that while a PET scan can detect active cancer, a colonoscopy can identify pre-cancerous polyps that can be removed before they develop into cancer.