New member with question ?

[lchasky]

my husband was just diagnosed with T3 node positive rectal cancer. What does that mean exactly? Prognosis? Any info would be helpful

[Lee]

Hi and welcome,

So sorry your post was over looked. It seems we had a lot of new comers all at once. I believe you are missing some information with T3. The Dukes classification works off of a TNM representation. The T represents the tumor location. The N represents the lymph nodes involvement (if any). The M represents metastasis (if any).

If 3 lymph nodes were positive for cancer, he is a stage III. Do you know if the tumor is in the rectum or colon?

I would say his prognosis is good if he is a stage III. I was diagnosed that 13 yrs ago and I am very much alive today. Because he has cancer cells in his lymph nodes, he will need chemo. The chemo is to kill off any stray cells floating around his body looking for a new place to grow (metastasis Stage IV).

I'm sure you have many questions, know that you have come to the right place for information and support. So please, fire away with any and all your question.

And again, welcome, sorry for the reason you are here.

Lee

P.S. Just saw he has rectal cancer. 2 things. Make sure he has a board certified colon rectal surgeon doing his surgery. And he should have radiation prior to surgery.

[WriterGirl1969]

I see Lee is already giving you excellent information, so I will just pipe in to say welcome. Sorry you had to find us, but so glad that you did. The people here really are wonderful and an excellent source of answers to questions.

Hugs and Prayers to you and hubby.
Tracy

[Cured]

Ichasky, Now you have 3 replies from Stage 3 survivors.

You both can have a positive outlook. Cancer is a word - not a sentence.
True, he has a lot to endure, but amazing results happen these days.

May God guide and comfort you.