Kisqali, blood tests and scans

@Cath62 i have CT scans every 4 months funny the ct didn’t show up my bone mets the bone scan spotted it first. I was on bone scan annually but for now they are they’ve chucked it back in the 4 monthly routine. Also originally the blood tests didn’t show any marked rise in my cancer markers  till 3 months after the first sign of possible metastatic disease it was when the osteoblastic activity increased and the size of the area increased so did the cancer markers go up that confirmed the metastatic bone lesions. Because of where they are it wasn’t recommended doing a biopsy besides being extremely painful to have done.    I remember having both a ct and bone scan at 6th month after end of original treatment it was mainly done to get a new base line  and it was just as well it was done. My 1st radiation oncologist blamed arthritis for the changes. Just as well my medical oncologist ignored him and went with her own judgment or it could have been much worse before i went into 1st line of treatment for mets 

By the way, I started on 400 mg - so I think it is accepted that 600 is often too high…

Hi - I’m also on this combination…. Also waiting for 3 month scan. I think the issue is that the cancer markers in blood tests are not reliable … but I’m not medically trained!

I am finding that I feel really fatigued - but I’m only 3 weeks in, so that could be because a) drugs, b) cancer c) psychology or combination!

best wishes for good outcomes for you!

sophie

@arpie I have learnt from others that bloods are just not reliable for many with breast cancer mets and so it seems it is common place to do ct scans every 3 months. I feel better living with that uncertainty knowing I am not alone with this. 

That's interesting that your bloods don't 'show' cancer markers @Cath62 ... I wonder if they've ever looked into others like you?  Sounds like they should, as it is the easiest & most cost effective test to have ... xx

All the best for getting that dose 'right' & the least side effects xx. Take care xx

Thanks @brightspace. I wrongly assumed it would be monitored via bloods but yes starting to understand that it's CT scan that will be every 3 months. I guess atm it's a matter of getting my dose right. Fingers crossed it works for me. Hope you are going well. Thanks again for your response.

Hi Cath 
At the start The norm is for Ct scan every three month 
For me When stable  and drug reduced mets size scans can be be left for 4 months I was on this combo for 2 Year
All the best 
Bright