Scan Results and More

Mark went off of the vasopressors last night. With some effort on my part, we got approval for him to start the cancer medications again. He needs them to keep tumors from growing! 

The MRI was not conclusive enough, so this morning a Hepatobiliary scan showed no obstruction in the biliary duct. That was also verified by labs that have shown a rapid fall in the bilirubin levels. So likely, the cholangitis inflammation caused the blockage, and the antibiotics cleared the pathway. However, a tumor had been pressing on the duct, which likely caused the cholangitis in the first place. The cancer meds may have shrunk the tumor enough to clear the duct, but the infection had already caused inflammation. 

The scan revealed that Mark also has a diseased gallbladder (Acalculous Cholecystitis) caused by medications, quick weight loss, and diminished liver function from extensive metastases. The team is currently deciding the next steps to take to resolve this issue. 

In the meantime, Mark is feeling much better. He was moved to a regular hospital room and continues to get excellent care.

Dr.Taylor got a response from the FDA today asking for clarification regarding the request for Mark to have the T-call transplant. He wrote the response this afternoon and should hear back from the FDA in a couple of weeks. If approval is granted, it only takes weeks, not months, to grow the warrior cells. Therefore, Mark could have this procedure much sooner than expected. Dr. Taylor is thrilled that the tumors are shrinking so quickly but is concerned about the longevity of the current medications The T-Cell transplant will be hard on his body, but it still has the possibility of eradicating cancer. So, we need to focus on getting Mark's strength back.

 Miracles keep happening, and we are so grateful!!! When I explained to Dr. Taylor all of the details about the emergency, he said Mark was minutes from death. He was emphatic that our son and Mark's sister saved his life!