Expert: Claes-Gustaf Nordquist, M.D. - 10/18/2008

Question
QUESTION: A good friend of mine was found to have a small spot on his lung and 15 lesions on his brain. He does not want to know a timeline for himself as the Drs told him that there is nothing they can do for the lesions at all. They are in both quadrates. He is now experiencing failing eyesite and pain in his legs, memory loss.  Since he does not want to know a timeline, he is still driving. Oh, all of this was found due to having a seizure.
 He is only 47 yrs old. What can we expect next and how long is a good estimate for how long he will still be with us? We are trying to get him to prepare..........

ANSWER: Even if his spots are small his survival time can in this situation probably be measured in months most probably NOT in years. With these lesions and especially with epileptic fits he should NOT drive! Driving is probably in this situation illegal for him! His survival time can probably be somewhat prolonged with radiation therapy but the difference will not be big. No cure is at present possible. If he does not want to know there is no use to try to influence him in any way (except with regards to driving since it influences the security of others).


---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Can you possibly tell me what to expect in the next few months. What symtoms to expect and care he will need?

Answer
He may show stroke like symptoms. There will probably be more epileptic fits (less likely if he is under medication for it - but still NO driving!). He will become more and more confused, will sleep more and more, drift into a coma eventually and then pass away. There will be little pain if any.