Expert: Claes-Gustaf Nordquist, M.D. - 10/12/2008

Question
Hi Dr Nordquist.  My father has been diagnosed with Stage 4 Liver cancer (it is also in his lymph glands)that has metastasised from a malignant melanoma that was removed in March 2008. It is also suspected to be in his prostate as his PSA levels were very high but they did not persue this due to the other findings. The doctors have suggested that he undergo chemotherapy to help with the symptoms (we know he cannot be cured)He is currently on steroids (which seem to really help his appetite and make him feel better) and anti-nausea medication. He has lost a tremendous amount of weight and his skin is dry and itchy. He says it feels uncomfortably tight in the area of his liver when he breathes in.  My questions are what can I expect regarding his symptoms so I will know if he is going to go into liver failure, what sort of time have we got left with him and do you think chemotherapy would help him?  I would appreciate your response.  Many thanks.

Answer
Unfortunately malignant melanomas are not very sensitive to radiation therapy or chemotherapy! There may be a liver failure but his melanoma may appear elsewhere too! It is hard to predict survival times. Anywhere from a few months to a year. But it is an educated guess.
I'm sorry I have nothing better to tell you!