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2019 diagnosed with NSCLC
2023 I am SCLC
Still don't understand how?
Nobody mention it to me

August 9, 2024
 · 
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Answer Summary

Members clarified that non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cannot mutate into small cell lung cancer (SCLC), as these are two distinct types of... Read more

Members clarified that non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cannot mutate into small cell lung cancer (SCLC), as these are two distinct types of cancer, not mutations of one another, and the original poster later confirmed the notation was a clerical error from their oncologist. Several members emphasized the importance of early detection, regular scanning, and staying proactive with medical teams, sharing personal stories of family cancer histories and the life-saving value of vigilant monitoring and strong treatment. A recurring theme was the need for patient education, self-advocacy, and maintaining faith in both science and support systems when navigating the unexpected twists of a cancer journey.

A MyLungCancerTeam Member

Andree, the above answer is correct SCLC is a different cancer than NSCLC, not a mutation. In my family there is a higher risk of cancers. Every member of my immediate family has had cancer, 6 different types. Five were cured by early diagnosis and strong therapy. Both my parents were very lucky because scanning wasn’t available in their time. One of my brothers died of melanoma. He was in denial, didn’t go to the doctor until it was too advanced.
As I was conducting clinical trials at the time, I really tried to educate my family. If was difficult as so many members were in denial. The spouses of my brothers didn’t want to drive 50 miles to get great testing at Stanford or UCSF. They thought it was too much trouble. I personally drove 300 miles to get to them and really explain their cancer to them. They followed my advice and lived. One is now 83, his surgery and treatment was about 10 years ago, and he has no evidence of disease in all scans conducted annually. The other brother is gone.
I have lung cancer and squamous cell carcinoma of the skin. I will be tested until I die. Tomorrow is go for brain and neck MRIs, with and without contrast. I have never had those areas scanned so at age 77, I will be scanned. I have thyroid problems which the doctors are uncertain of cause.
Andree, my observation is the in the USA we wait too long. For lung we mentally link it to smoking, while 60% of patients didn’t smoke. We don’t educate the public that many cancers mutate, but many are different. In your question, you ask about 2 different cancers. You may have an unknown risk factor for cancer. I know there is a genetic link for colon cancer as 4 members of my immediate family have had colon cancer, or lesions leading to colon cancer. Myself included. So I go every 3 years to have them surgically removed via colonoscopy. So does my brother and his son.
Cancer is a long and complicated set of diseases; mutations do occur, hence the need for different treatments. I believe scanning and biopsy are under utilized.
Andree you are strong and a fighter, which is very good.
My best to you.
Mickeyfin

August 9, 2024
A MyLungCancerTeam Member

Nope. Apples and oranges. Nsclc CANNOT change into sclc. Too different cancers

August 9, 2024
A MyLungCancerTeam Member

The Doctor told me typo'error

August 13, 2024
A MyLungCancerTeam Member

Andree,
What report did that come up on? When?

Looking at your treatments, you've been treated for NSCLC all along, so it is probably a typo.
Back in May 2020, I hade to have a COVID test 3 days before my biopsy. On the report about the biopsy, under the vitals section, it said "COVID: YES". But I had the clearance form from the lab that did the test that said "Negative". My care providers since then always see that and think I once had covid.

How are you doing now?
What treatments are you getting?

Stay positive!
Tony

August 9, 2024
A MyLungCancerTeam Member

So It is not possible

August 9, 2024

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