I just got off the phone with the radiologist who read my “before and after” PET scans performed in conjunction with the immunotherapy treatment. But before I convey the upshot of that discussion, allow me to recap the treatment regimen I am currently undergoing.
What I have affectionately referred to as my squadron of chimps is actually a drug known as R1507, a human monoclonal antibody that targets IGF-1R (insulin-like growth factor receptor) in patients with solid tumors. IGF-1 is one of the most potent natural activators of signaling pathways that promote cell growth and cell survival. A Phase 1 trial of this drug on 34 sarcoma patients demonstrated positive results in decreasing tumor metabolic activity. My access to this antibody is via clinical trial and it is my understanding that I am the first liposarcoma patient to be so treated. (Sometimes it feels as though I’m getting a little too far out in front of my headlights in all of this . . .)
I had my first R1507 infusion on November 13 followed by a second round on November 20. PET scans, which enable measurement of a tumor’s metabolic activity, were administered on November 12 (prior to treatment initiation) and again on November 21 (the day after Round 2). The results of these scans were the subject of my discussion with the radiologist at LA3 (the facility where the scans are performed).
According to the radiologist, the scans are “very encouraging” and show “significantly diminished or resolved PET activity” over the interval between the two scans. My SUVs (Standardized Uptake Values) are down in the 3 to 4 range, indicating relatively low tumor metabolism. Tumor shrinkage, if it is to occur, takes many weeks to manifest. But so far, so good. My little chimps appear to be fighting the good fight.
Round 3 is scheduled for Wednesday.
And for whatever it’s worth, I’m continuing to feel a little bit better. I haven’t had to take any Advil for two days. I’m sleeping better at night. My GI tract continues to function. I’m beginning to hang some meat on this skin-and-bones skeleton again. Most days are better than the previous one. And that’s a trend that I’m happy to ride for as long as I can.
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4 comments:
It appears there is much for which to be thankful! I'm glad you're feeling better little by little and that you hired yourself some feisty chimps to take to battle. Your sisters' earlier posts were so moving, then your mom's post did me in. You are, in fact, a renaissance man, Paul - a rare breed. I'm so lucky to know you. Happy Thanksgiving, my dear friend. Love, Kay
Sounds like you're off to a good start! I just read Mom's first comment since the blog started (way to go mom!), and she very eloquently summarized what Jan and I were trying to say. What is it about writing in this family? I guess it's easier to write certain things that are hard to say out loud. As long as the thoughts get conveyed somehow, the mode doesn't really matter. See you Thursday...
Say hi to Karen for me. It was really nice to meet her a couple of weeks ago - though not such a nice occasion with you in the hospital and all :-/ Such a warm hearted human being she is...
Hey Paul, this is really encouraging news! I'm sorry you're going through all of this but I do have the highest respect for the way you're attacking it plus the fact you've retained your sense of humor.
Ron (former trumpet player in SB)
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