Hi,
In this case, the usual treatment is chemotherapy, surgical removal of the primary site is not routinely done.
The tumor burden in the lung seems to be taken as a decision point. If it is limited – therapy like more
radiation to this site or an operation on the lung may be feasible. The actual benefit of this is uncertain,
although removal of metastatic cancers in the lung is not new- enough experience has been seen for other
cancers, not throat cancers. Being that as it may, it is still a reasonable option to consider as the benefit
from chemotherapy is modest.
The statement that if there is more cancer in the lung there will be no treatment likely means there will be
no surgery. While you may choose to have no treatment at all, a treatment option will be chemotherapy.
I think it is always good that several options are considered (although of course, while the pan is not yet
made, this can cause anxiety). Things may change though when test results return. Hence, discuss the options
with your doctor, and come up with an acceptable course of action. It may also be good to see other
specialists, like a medical oncologist , and talk about chemotherapy when all the tests are in.
