How can my 70-y/o grandmother prepare for a brain mask fitting?

Question

Hello doctor,

My grandmother is 70 years old and has been battling endometrial cancer for almost two years. Last month, we received the devastating news that the cancer had spread to her lungs, and more recently, a small lesion was found in her brain during a routine MRI.

Her radiation oncologist has scheduled a mask fitting for stereotactic brain radiation, and my grandmother is extremely frightened about what this procedure entails.

She has mild claustrophobia and experienced a panic attack during her last MRI scan. Currently, she is on Doxorubicin as part of her treatment regimen, and her platelet count was 98,000 per microliter last week, which the doctor indicated is on the lower side.

She keeps asking us about what the mask will feel like, how long she will have to stay still, and whether it will cause her any pain.

We are also concerned because she has mild cervical spondylosis, and keeping her neck in a fixed position for an extended period causes her discomfort.

How can she physically and mentally prepare for the brain radiation mask fitting, given the extent of her cancer?
Is there anything specific we should inform the radiation team about her conditions before the appointment?

Please guide.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have read your query and understand your concerns.

I hope you are doing well. I wish your grandmother a speedy recovery. It is natural and common for endometrial cancer to spread, and this spread is usually distant rather than localized, affecting areas such as the brain, bones, or liver.

We treat these metastases based on their specific locations. For example, if there are metastases in the brain, we typically use radiation therapy. The sessions usually do not exceed five and are administered at a low dose, resulting in minimal side effects while improving her overall condition and neurological status.

Additionally, we need to consider immunotherapy, which can help shrink the tumor and reduce distant metastasis. She will also require the best supportive care, which includes appropriate management for the brain when necessary.

Attention to nutrition is important, so she should consume well-washed fruits and vegetables and drink plenty of water. Emotional support is also crucial, and it is important for everyone to be there for her to provide full support.

I hope this clarifies the situation. If you have any questions or need further assistance, please do not hesitate to ask.

Thank you.

How can my 70-y/o grandmother prepare for a brain mask fitting?

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