An update from Dr Lee: What’s next after the PET scan

We had a telephone chat with Dr Antonio Lee, and I felt a mix of anxiety and hope as I awaited his insights. This conversation could provide crucial answers about my health.

He said that generally he has a good feeling that the lesion takes up the characteristics of a neuroendocrine tumour. Hearing that there were no lymph nodes impacted or having spread was a relief. Knowing it was localised to the pancreas felt like a slight reprieve amid the uncertainty.

Blood tests were normal. Neuroendocrine tumours can secrete hormones, and their presence can often be detected through blood tests. Understanding that my blood tests were normal brought some reassurance, but I knew we still had a long way to go. A biopsy would be necessary to confirm the type of tumour.

Dr Lee mentioned that a multi-disciplinary team of specialists would convene to discuss the risks and recommendations for treatment. It was comforting to know that a group of experts would weigh in on my care, bringing various perspectives to the table.

He also stressed the importance of taking one step at a time, which resonated with me as I navigated the uncertainty of the situation.

Dr Lee explained that my pancreatic tumour was an incidental finding, potentially obstructing the gut and bile duct. It was unsettling to think that something so serious had been hiding without any prior symptoms. This made me realise the importance of regular check-ups and being vigilant about health.