2nd meeting w/ Neurosurgeon #2 to review CT scan

We met with:
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Dr. Kim
Neurosurgeon @ Hoag Hospital, Newport Beach, CA
10/13/05
10/24/05

Here's the results of our conversations:
10/24/05

Reviewing the results of the CT scan, we found that there is something in the left lower lobe of the lung, 2.7x2.1cm but not sure what it is. Don't think it is lung cancer, it could be infection, or a cyst, not really sure so would like Mark to see a pulminologist for more information about what was found in the lung. The CT scan also showed a cyst on the spleen but this is very common and no big deal. The CT scan also showed some degeneration in the left hip joint, but no cause for alarm, probably related to his active life style. We also reviewed a recent blood test and noticed that the following levels were higher than a previous test: glucose serum levels, AST & ALT. Higher levels are expected due to the anti-seizure medication; however we need to keep an eye on the AST & ALT levels. These are related to the liver and if they keep going up, we will need to change the medication. The dilantin levels were low, so the GP's call to up the medication 100mg was right. We should next get a new MRI and a functional MRI as well so we can see if the tumor is getting smaller or not before deciding the next step.

Questions:

Can tumors be caused by stress? no
Had Epstein bar at one time, could it be related? No correlation that we know of.
Could it be a parasite? Usually from undercooked pork, not from sushi.

What's next?:
10/24/05 2nd MRI
10/24/05 2nd Function MRI
10/28/05 @ 2pm, 2nd meeting with Dr. Martin (neurosurgeon #1) for plan of action meeting
11/1/05 3rd meeting with Dr. Kim(neurosurgeon #2) to review MRI results
get another liver function test in a few weeks