Yesterday, a neck to knee CT scan established the baseline for tumor status in the clinical trial for Zactima. The CT also delivered an unwelcome surprise showing a Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) in my left femoral vein. The medical doctor from the study team organized the response to this discovery paving the way through an affiliated ER.
I haven't seen the radiologist's report so I have no details about the clot, although the ER attending physician explained that DVT is not an uncommon occurence as a sidebar to cancer. In lay terms he explained that cancer cells feast on the protein content of blood leaving a thickened fluid prone to forming clots that adhere to vein walls and, untreated, can break loose and lodge, usually in the lungs, creating havoc with life essentials such as breathing.
Coumadin, orally once a day, is the standard treatment for DVT and started immediately. The exact dosage for this medication, however, must be adjusted for each individual over a period of 1 - 2 weeks at the start of treatment. For the first few days I take a companion drug (Lovenox) in addition to the Coumadin to moderate introduction into my system. The Lovenox prescription comes in a funny little pre-loaded syringe with a very fine, ultra sharp stubby needle that I stick into a pinched up roll of fat (what little is left) on my belly.
After a few days, I'll have enough Coumadin on board to put my blood into an acceptable range of fluidity to start making the final adjustments to the dosage. Lovenox stops and blood draws start to monitor Coumadin levels.
We will be looking for stability over time of several blood factors strongly influenced by diet, including Vitamin K mostly from green leafy vegetables. I'll have to cut back on my beloved spinach and big green salads that, especially in summertime, I dote on.
At the moment I am feeling fine and have no DVT symptoms or side effects from the medication for this condition.
We are proceedinig with the Zactima clinical trial as there are no adverse medication interactions. It is truly amazing what the human body can accommodate!
More details on the clinical trial soon -- first dose to be taken on Friday August 17th. Thank you for your continued support for both of us. We enfold you in our thankful embrace.
Copyright 2007
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