Lung Cancer in IPF

[manyhats]

Do Your homework On Doctors And Don’t Be Afraid Of Second Opinions.
Went in for flare up with a new pulmonologist and got a six minute walk. No ex-ray or cat at that time . A few months later ex-ray from family doctor led to finding a lung mass. A different pulmonologist ,a good oncologist team and chemotherapy it’s now less than half approximate 8cm x 8 cm original size . Not the same as your choice as mine was squamous cell and to late for surgery ,radiation or immunotherapy. 9 years IPF 1 year cancer and still 91/o2 sitting.
Homework and prayer are my best recommendations

[ACA]

Hi, sorry to read about this twist in your road. I was diagnosed with IPF in September of 23. At that time they said there was an additional mass in my right lung that they did not bother with as it appeared to be more fibrosis. Was sent to Columbia Presbyterian’s lung transplant program. That pulmonologist agreed, it looked like more fibrosis. She did say “even though it appears to be more fibrosis, I can’t rest if we don’t test”. PET scan can back positive for cancer. I had 4 biopsies, all inconclusive-another PET scan, ultimately, had a lobectomy, 4 months ago. Turns out that mass was more fibrosis, but very early stage cancerous tumor was inside that mass. I’m very fortunate, if not for the IPF we might not have found this cancer till it had spread, my breathing is a bit more difficult and takes longer to get my levels back to normal, but again, I’m very fortunate.

I hope you’re being treated by doctors that you trust, and they are the best at what they do. The team I have at Columbia make me feel as I’m their only patient. At rest, I can go without O2, active I’m only at 3 liters, though I’m not all that active because I wear out so quick. It’s all an adjustment, I’m about to turn 61, not where I thought I’d be, but fortunate to be able to do as much as I do.

Best wishes as you navigate your new diagnosis….I know this was not much help, just know you’re not alone.