Dr. Srikanth. N
Orthopedician and Traumatology
The following is an actual conversation between an iCliniq user and a doctor that has been reviewed and published as a Premium Q&A.
Answered by
Medically reviewed by
Patient's Query
Hi doctor,
My mother is suffering with breast cancer as primary and now there is brain metastasis. The disease has spread to all the parts of the body including the bones. I have attached her PET scan for your reference. We are taking the treatment for the disease and her physical condition was very good till last week. Our doctor got changed suddenly as he moved to another hospital and the new doctor is taking care of her now. Every month we used to have Ibandronic acid for bone, but we did not receive this medicine last month as this doctor did not include it. Now, my mother is getting severe leg pains and not able to sit or get up. She is unable to stand for even 2 minutes. Can you see the PET scan report and suggest good medicine for the bone improvement? Can you suggest a good medicine for bone metastasis? Some doctor said that Zoledronic acid is better than Ibandronic acid. Please suggest.
Hi,
Welcome to icliniq.com.
I understand your concern about the patient.
As per the scan report you sent (attachment removed to protect patient identity), though the metastasis is widespread, she has relatively improved as far as bone are considered (sclerotic). In case of cancers, bone quality is largely affected. Bisphosphonates are used to improve the quality of bone, which is a slow process. Currently, two approved and commonly used IV bisphosphonates are Pamidronate disodium (Aredia and Novartis) and Zoledronic acid (Zometa and Novartis). This will reduce her bone pain relatively. Her kidney function should be normal before taking this injection. This should be taken once in a month. You can just request the treating oncologist regarding this.
Regarding your query, though there are few differences between them Zoledronic acid is preferred. But, that does not mean that the other bisphosphonate should not be taken. Any bisphosphonate work similarly with each differing in their side effects. She might not be able get up means apart from the bony component, neurological component might be present and her generalized weakness would also add to it.
The Probable causes
Preventive measures
Regarding follow up
Patient's Query
Hi doctor,
Thank you for the reply. I took my mother to a neurologist, and he told it is neurology component problem, nothing to do with the orthopedic doctor. My mother has taken tablets for two weeks. Now, she can walk and do her daily activities. Your message has helped a lot. Previously, every time I used to take her to bones specialist and they used to give some medicines, but no use. Your analysis is 100% correct. Thank you very much.
Hi,
Welcome back to icliniq.com.
Thank you. Hope your mother does her activities of daily living effortlessly. Take care.
For further information consult a medical oncologist online --> https://www.icliniq.com/ask-a-doctor-online/medical-oncologist
Was this conversation helpful?
Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!
Orthopedician and Traumatology
Related Questions
Apart from surgery what are the treatment options for AVN of hip?
Ayurvedic Approach to Osteoporosis
Kindly explain non-FDG avid in a PET scan of a breast cancer patient.
Am I undertaking the right treatment for breast cancer?
Esophageal Cancer - a Rare, but Fatal Cancer
I have osteoporosis. Will I be able to conceive?
Disclaimer: No content published on this website is intended to be a substitute for professional medical diagnosis, advice or treatment by a trained physician. Seek advice from your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with questions you may have regarding your symptoms and medical condition for a complete medical diagnosis. Do not delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice because of something you have read on this website. Read our Editorial Process to know how we create content for health articles and queries.
This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website. iCliniq privacy policy
