What Treatment Options Will I Be Offered?

Treatment options may vary according to the age and over-all health of the patient, and the extent of the disease. It is important to be informed of all available options for your particular case, so that you can make decision on the option you feel most comfortable with. Surgery, chemotherapy, and clinical trials, as well as new approaches such as photodynamic therapy, immunotherapy, and gene therapy may be offered. Speak openly with your doctor regarding suggested procedures. Questions may include:

Why is this procedure best for me?
What does the procedure entail?
What are the advantages/disadvantages of this treatment (i.e, will this procedure limit my eligibility for other treatments)?
What are the possible risks or adverse side effects?
What are the response, survival, and mortality rates associated with this procedure?